Vehicular circuit body

ABSTRACT

A vehicular circuit body provided in a vehicle includes a trunk line that extends in at least a front-and-rear direction of the vehicle, a plurality of control boxes that are provided in the trunk line, and a branch line that directly or indirectly connects a control box to an accessory. The trunk line includes a power source line having a predetermined current capacity and a communication line having a predetermined communication capacity. The branch line includes a communication line having a predetermined communication capacity. The communication line of the trunk line has a transmission path for an optical signal. The communication line of the branch line has a transmission path for an electric signal.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation of International Application No.PCT/JP2017/023303 filed on Jun. 23, 2017, and claims priority fromJapanese Patent Applications No. 2016-125287 filed on Jun. 24, 2016, No.2016-125896 filed on Jun. 24, 2016, No. 2016-131167 filed on Jun. 30,2016 and No. 2016-187627 filed on Sep. 26, 2016, the entire contents ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a vehicular circuit body routed in avehicle.

BACKGROUND ART

In a vehicle, for example, source power is required to be appropriatelysupplied to a large number of various electric components from analternator (generator) or a battery which is a main power source. Asystem used to supply such source power is also required to have afunction of switching between ON and OFF of the supply of power asnecessary, or a function of cutting off a current for each system in acase where an excessive current flows through an electric component.

In a general vehicle, a wire harness which is an aggregate of aplurality of electric wires is routed on the vehicle, and a main powersource is connected to electric components at each location via the wireharness so that power is supplied thereto. Generally, a junction blockis used to distribute source power to a plurality of systems, a relaybox is used to control ON and OFF of the supply of power for eachsystem, or a fuse box is used to protect each electric wire or a load ofthe wire harness.

The vehicle is provided with a plurality of control units forcontrolling the electric components, and the control units and theelectric components are communicably connected to each other via thewire harness.

For example, a wire harness disclosed in Patent Document JP-A-2005-78962includes a network transmission path and a circuit for providing power,GND and other signals. The wire harness includes a wire harness trunkline, a sub-wire harness, an optional sub-wire harness, and a networkhub device.

SUMMARY

In recent years, vehicle systems including such a power source system orcommunication system have become advanced due to an increase in thenumber of mounted electric components, complexity of control, or thelike. An automatic driving technology is rapidly evolving, and safetyrequirements for various functions are also increasing in order to copewith this automatic driving.

Along with this, a structure of a wire harness routed on a vehicle bodytends to be complicated. Therefore, for example, as in Patent DocumentJP-A-2005-78962, the wire harness having a complex shape as a whole isformed by combining the wire harness trunk line, the sub-wire harness,and the optional sub-wire harness, and thus connection to variouselectric components disposed at various locations on a vehicle body canbe performed.

Since a diameter of each electric wire forming the wire harness or thenumber of electric wires increases due to an increase in the number ofelectric components mounted on a vehicle, there is a tendency that asize of the entire wire harness increases or a weight thereof increases.The types and the number of components of wire harness to bemanufactured increase due to a difference between vehicle models mountedwith a wire harness or increases in types of optional electriccomponents mounted on a vehicle, and thus it is difficult to standardizecomponents forming the wire harness, and component cost or manufacturingcost increases.

In a work process of manufacturing a wire harness, in order to finishthe wire harness in a predetermined routing shape, a bundle of aplurality of electric wires forming the wire harness is pulled aroundover a long distance along a path which is designated in advance, andthus a lot of work time is required. Since almost all of electric wiresare collected at a trunk line portion of the wire harness, the number ofbundled electric wires increases, and thus a weight thereof increases.

For example, in a case where a new electric component which is notexpected at initial design is mounted on a vehicle, a new electric wireis required to be added to a wire harness in order to secure a pathalong which a special signal is transmitted to between the electriccomponent and another electric component or to supply source powerthereto. However, a wire harness has a complex structure or shape, andit is very difficult to add other electric wires to the existing wireharness in the future. Therefore, a new wire harness having differingtype or component number is required to be designed so as to bemanufactured as a separate product.

On a vehicle, for example, it is desirable to connect a plurality ofapparatuses transmitting a large volume of data such as video signalscaptured by various cameras to each other. In such an environment,optical communication may be employed so that a large capacity ofcommunication can be performed at a high speed. However, if the entireon-vehicle system is connected by using an optical communicationnetwork, the system is inevitably very expensive.

The present invention has been made in consideration of theabove-described circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide avehicular circuit body in which a structure for electrical connectionbetween various electric components and a power source on a vehicle andbetween the electric components, particularly, a configuration of atrunk line portion is simplified and a new electric wire can be easilyadded.

Means for Solving the Problem

In order to achieve the above-described object, a vehicular circuit bodyaccording to the present invention is characterized in terms of thefollowing (1) to (3).

(1) A vehicular circuit body provided in a vehicle, comprising:

a trunk line that extends in at least a front-and-rear direction of thevehicle;

a plurality of control boxes that are provided in the trunk line; and

a branch line that directly or indirectly connects a control box to anaccessory,

wherein the trunk line includes a power source line having apredetermined current capacity and a communication line having apredetermined communication capacity,

wherein the branch line includes a communication line having apredetermined communication capacity,

wherein the communication line of the trunk line has a transmission pathfor an optical signal, and

wherein the communication line of the branch line has a transmissionpath for an electric signal.

With this configuration, since the trunk line connecting the controlboxes to each other has the transmission path for an optical signal, itis possible to increase a transmission capacity between the controlboxes. Since an optical signal is used, it is hardly influenced byelectromagnetic noise generated in the power source line of the trunkline or external apparatuses, and thus it is possible to increasereliability of communication.

(2) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1),

wherein the branch line further includes a power source line having apredetermined current capacity.

With this configuration, not only an electric signal but also electricpower can be supplied from a trunk line via a control box to anaccessory that is connected to a branch line.

(3) In the vehicular circuit body according to above (1) or (2),

wherein at least one communication line of the trunk line directlyconnects two of the plurality of control boxes to each other.

With this configuration, two control boxes are directly connected toeach other via a transmission path for an optical signal, and thustransmission and reception of signals can be performed at a high speed.

It is possible to provide a vehicular circuit body in which aconfiguration of a trunk line portion is simplified and a new electricwire can be easily added.

As mentioned above, the present invention has been described briefly.Details of the present invention will become more apparent by readingthrough modes for carrying out the invention (hereinafter, referred toas “embodiments”) described below with reference to the accompanyingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a layout and aconnection state of each portion, and a summary of each module mountedon a vehicle body in a state in which a vehicular circuit body accordingto a first embodiment of the present invention is routed on the vehiclebody.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which therespective modules illustrated in FIG. 1 are mounted on the vehiclebody.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view illustrating a supply side control boxillustrated in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3B is a sectional view taken along aline A-A in FIG. 3A.

FIGS. 4A to 4C are perspective views illustrating procedures ofassembling the supply side control box illustrated in FIG. 3.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are perspective views for explaining a circuit boardaccording to the present embodiment.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view illustrating a branch control boxillustrated in FIG. 1; FIG. 6B is a perspective view illustrating acontrol box illustrated in FIG. 1; and FIG. 6C is a perspective viewillustrating an intermediate control box illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a principal portion enlarged perspective view for explainingan instrument panel module illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 8 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining a branch boxaccording to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 9A to 9C are perspective views for explaining a structure of thebranch box illustrated in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a modificationexample of a routing material according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a principal portion perspective view illustrating amodification example of a flat conductor according to the presentembodiment.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view for explaining a fuse provided in a flatconductor according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 13A is a perspective view for explaining an example in which apower source line and an earth line formed of flat conductors accordingto the present embodiment are connected to a battery, and FIG. 13B is asectional view taken along a line B-B in FIG. 13A.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view for explaining a connection structureexample of a routing material formed of flat conductors according to thepresent embodiment.

FIGS. 15A to 15C are perspective views for explaining arrangements ofpower source lines according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 16A to 16D are sectional views for explaining arrangements ofrouting materials according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 17A to 17E are sectional views for explaining arrangements ofrouting materials according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 18A and 18B are sectional views for explaining arrangements ofrouting materials according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 19A and 19B are sectional views for explaining a board connectionstructure of a round bar conductor according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view for explaining a structure of forming aterminal by using a stranded wire according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 21A to 21D are principal portion enlarged views for explainingterminal structure examples of power source lines according to thepresent embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view for explaining an example of forming around bar conductor according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram in which a coat sectional area of awire harness of the related art is compared with a coat sectional areaof a routing material according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 24A and 24B are principal portion perspective view and sectionalview for explaining a terminal connection structure of the round barconductor according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 25A and 25B are principal portion perspective view and sectionalview for explaining a control box connection structure of a round barconductor according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 26A and 26B are principal portion perspective views for explainingmodification examples of the round bar conductor according to thepresent embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a sectional view for explaining a modification example of arouting material according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 28 is a sectional view for explaining a modification example of arouting material according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 29A is a longitudinal sectional view for explaining a modificationexample of a routing material according to the present embodiment, andFIG. 29B is a sectional view taken along a line C-C in FIG. 29A.

FIGS. 30A to 30D are sectional views for explaining modificationexamples of routing materials according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 31A is a longitudinal sectional view for explaining a modificationexample of a routing material according to the present embodiment, andFIG. 31B is a sectional view taken along a line D-D in FIG. 31A.

FIG. 32 is a plan view for explaining a modification example of arouting material according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 33A to 33C are partial perspective views and a cross-sectionalview for explaining routing form examples of routing materials accordingto the present embodiment.

FIG. 34 is a partial sectional perspective view for explaining amodification example of a vehicular circuit body according to thepresent embodiment.

FIG. 35 is a principal portion perspective view for explaining a jointform example of a routing material according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 36 is a principal portion perspective view for explaining a jointform example of a routing material according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 37A and 37B are principal portion exploded perspective views forexplaining modification examples of control boxes according to thepresent embodiment.

FIGS. 38A and 38B are partial sectional perspective views for explainingmodification examples of routing materials according to the presentembodiment.

FIGS. 39A and 39B are perspective views for explaining routing formexamples of a routing material according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 40 is a schematic plan view for explaining a modification exampleof a vehicular circuit body according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 41A to 41E are schematic plan views for explaining modificationexamples of vehicular circuit bodies according to the presentembodiment.

FIG. 42 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining amodification example of a vehicular circuit body according to thepresent embodiment.

FIG. 43 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining amodification example of a vehicular circuit body according to thepresent embodiment.

FIG. 44 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining amodification example of a vehicular circuit body according to thepresent embodiment.

FIG. 45 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a layout and aconnection state of each portion in a state in which a vehicular circuitbody according to the modification example of the present embodiment isrouted on the vehicle body.

FIG. 46 is a principal portion sectional view for explaining a dashpanel penetration structure of a trunk line illustrated in FIG. 45.

FIG. 47 is a schematic plan view illustrating a layout and a connectionstate of each portion in a state in which a vehicular circuit bodyaccording to a second embodiment of the present invention is routed on avehicle body.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example ofprincipal portions of an on-vehicle device including a vehicular circuitbody in a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 49 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of anon-vehicle system.

FIGS. 50A and 50B are electrical circuit diagrams illustratingconfiguration examples of backbone trunk lines.

FIG. 51 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of anelectrical circuit inside a control box.

FIG. 52 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example offunctions of the control box.

FIG. 53 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acommunication system in the on-vehicle system.

FIG. 54 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of thecommunication system in the on-vehicle system including a gateway.

FIGS. 55A, 55B and 55C are perspective views respectively illustratingto configuration examples for physically protecting unused connectors ina connection portion of the control box.

FIG. 56 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process forprotecting an unused connector through control.

FIG. 57 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acommunication system inside the control box.

FIG. 58 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a circuitconfiguration example for supplying power to each communication systeminside the control box.

FIG. 59 is an exploded view illustrating a configuration example of awire harness obtained by combining a printed circuit board with electricwires.

FIG. 60 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an exterior ofa control box having USB ports.

FIGS. 61A, 61B and 61C are plan views illustrating three configurationexamples of circuit boards built in a control box or the like.

FIG. 62 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of aconnection location of a routing member forming a trunk line.

FIG. 63 is a plan view illustrating a connection example between acontrol box on the trunk line and branch line sub-harnesses.

FIG. 64 is a plan view illustrating a connection example between acontrol box on the trunk line and branch line sub-harnesses.

FIGS. 65A and 65B are plan views illustrating connection examplesbetween a trunk line and branch line sub-harnesses.

FIG. 66 is a perspective view illustrating a connection example betweena control box on the trunk line and branch line sub-harnesses.

FIG. 67 is a perspective view illustrating an arrangement example of atrunk line and a plurality of branch line sub-harnesses routed on avehicle body.

FIGS. 68A and 68B are block diagrams illustrating a plurality of controlboxes and a communication trunk line connecting the control boxes toeach other.

FIG. 69 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a control box having a recovery function.

FIGS. 70A and 70B are block diagrams illustrating connection examplesbetween a wire harness and a load.

FIG. 71 is a perspective view illustrating a specific example ofarrangement and connection of various constituent elements on a vehiclebody.

FIGS. 72A, 72B and 72C are block diagrams illustrating specific examplesof connection states of a trunk line, a control box, a battery, and thelike.

FIGS. 73A, 73B, 73C, 73D and 73E are block diagrams illustratingspecific examples of connection states of a trunk line and one or morebatteries.

FIG. 74 is a block diagram illustrating a specific example of aconnection state of a trunk line and a plurality of batteries.

FIG. 75 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a power source system in an on-vehicle system.

FIG. 76A is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of anon-vehicle system, and FIG. 76B is a perspective view illustrating anexample of an exterior of the same on-vehicle system.

FIGS. 77A and 77B are longitudinal sectional views respectivelyillustrating configuration examples of different backbone trunk lines.

FIG. 78 is a time chart illustrating an example of a correspondencerelationship between a power source current and a power source voltagein a case where special power source control is performed.

FIGS. 79A, 79B and 79C are longitudinal sectional views respectivelyillustrating configuration examples of different backbone trunk lines.

FIG. 80 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a power source system in an on-vehicle system.

FIG. 81 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating a configurationexample of a communication cable.

FIG. 82 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acommunication system in an on-vehicle system.

FIG. 83 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example ofcommunication systems in an on-vehicle system in which the communicationsystems are connected in a ring form.

FIG. 84 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example ofcommunication systems in an on-vehicle system in which the communicationsystems are connected in a star form.

FIGS. 85A, 85B and 85C illustrate communication connection statesbetween apparatuses in different situations, in which FIG. 85A is aperspective view, and FIGS. 85B and 85C are block diagrams.

FIG. 86 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a power source system in an on-vehicle system.

FIG. 87 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a power source system in an on-vehicle system.

FIG. 88 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a backup power source circuit.

FIG. 89 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a power source circuit for power load.

FIG. 90 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of anon-vehicle system.

FIG. 91 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acontrol box which can switch between a plurality of communicationprotocols.

FIG. 92 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acontrol box.

FIGS. 93A and 93B are block diagrams illustrating a configurationexample of an on-vehicle system.

FIG. 94 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acircuit module provided in a driver seat door panel.

FIG. 95 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acircuit module provided in a passenger seat door panel.

FIG. 96 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acircuit module provided in a rear seat door panel.

FIG. 97 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acircuit module provided in a vehicle's roof.

FIG. 98 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of asmart connection connector.

FIGS. 99A and 99B are block diagrams respectively illustratingconfiguration examples of communication systems in different on-vehiclesystems.

FIG. 100 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acommunication system in an on-vehicle system.

FIG. 101 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acommunication system in an on-vehicle system.

FIG. 102 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating a configurationexample of a communication trunk line BB_LC.

FIG. 103 is a time chart illustrating a configuration example of anoptical signal on which wavelength multiplexing and time divisionmultiplexing are performed.

FIG. 104 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acommunication system in an on-vehicle system performing opticalmultiplexing communication.

FIG. 105 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of theinside of a control box.

FIG. 106 is a front view illustrating a specific example of a screendisplayed during a power supply failure.

FIG. 107 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which auser selects an apparatus to be used during a power supply failure.

FIGS. 108A, 108B and 108C are block diagrams respectively illustratingconfigurations of three backbone trunk lines corresponding to differentgrades.

FIGS. 109A and 109B are block diagrams respectively illustratingconfiguration examples of different on-vehicle systems.

FIG. 110 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of anon-vehicle system.

FIG. 111 is a block diagram illustrating examples of a configuration ofa power source line included in a backbone trunk line and a connectionstate of each apparatus.

FIG. 112 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of anon-vehicle system.

FIG. 113 is a schematic plan view illustrating a layout of a backbonetrunk line portion according to a vehicular circuit body of a fourthembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 114A is a principal portion perspective view illustrating aninstrument panel backbone trunk line portion of the backbone trunk lineportion illustrated in FIG. 113, and FIG. 114B is a principal portionperspective view illustrating a floor backbone trunk line portion of thebackbone trunk line portion illustrated in FIG. 113.

FIGS. 115A to 115C are respectively a front view, a bottom view, and aleft side view illustrating a supply side control box illustrated inFIG. 114A.

FIGS. 116A and 116B are a perspective view and a bottom view of a branchcontrol box illustrated in FIG. 114A viewed from a bottom side.

FIG. 117 is a principal portion exploded perspective view for explaininga connection structure example between an instrument panel backbonetrunk line portion and a floor backbone trunk line portion in the branchcontrol box illustrated in FIG. 116.

FIG. 118A is a sectional view taken along a line F-F in FIG. 117, andFIG. 118B is a sectional view taken along a line G-G in FIG. 117.

FIGS. 119A and 119B are a perspective view and a front view of amulti-connector illustrated in FIG. 114A.

FIG. 120A is a sectional view taken along a line E-E in FIG. 116, andFIG. 120B is a sectional view taken along a line H-H in FIG. 120A.

FIG. 121 is a sectional view illustrating a state in which themulti-connector is connected to a branch control box illustrated in FIG.120A.

FIGS. 122A and 122B are a perspective view and a bottom view of acontrol box illustrated in FIG. 114A viewed from a bottom side.

FIG. 123 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which an uppercase of an intermediate control box illustrated in FIG. 114B is open.

FIG. 124 is a principal portion exploded perspective view for explaininga connection structure example between a circuit board and a floorbackbone trunk line portion in the intermediate control box illustratedin FIG. 123.

FIG. 125 is a sectional view taken along a line J-J in FIG. 124.

FIGS. 126A and 126B are sectional views taken along a line I-I in FIG.123 illustrating states in which the circuit board is separated andassembled.

FIG. 127 is a front view illustrating another embodiment of a backbonecontrol box and proximity thereof.

FIG. 128 is a plan view illustrating a configuration example ofprincipal portions of an on-vehicle device including a vehicular circuitbody.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Specific embodiments regarding the present invention will be describedwith reference to the respective drawings.

<Disclosure of the Present Invention and Latent Claims> [Form-1]

(1) A vehicular circuit body includes:

a trunk line that includes a power source line having a predeterminedcurrent capacity and a communication line having a predeterminedcommunication capacity, and that is routed in a vehicle body;

a branch line that is directly or indirectly connected to an accessory;and

a plurality of control boxes that are disposed in a distribution manneralong the trunk line and include a control unit for distributing atleast one of power from the power source line supplied to the trunkline, and a signal from the communication line, to the branch lineconnected to the trunk line,

in which the trunk line is formed of a routing material having at leastone kind of conductor among a flat conductor, a round bar conductor, anda stranded wire.

According to the vehicular circuit body with the configuration of theabove (1), it is possible to provide a vehicular circuit body with asimple structure by using the trunk line having a predetermined currentcapacity and a predetermined communication capacity and routed in avehicle body, and the branch line connecting an accessory to the trunkline via a plurality of control boxes which are disposed in adistribution manner along the trunk line.

The vehicular circuit body is separately formed of the trunk line whichis used in common to a plurality of vehicle models, grades, or options,and the branch line which is changed depending on a plurality of vehiclemodels, grades, or optional accessories. Therefore, even if the numberof vehicle models, grades, or optional accessories increases, only thebranch lines having different wirings need to be prepared depending on aplurality of vehicle models, grades, or optional accessories, and thusit is possible to facilitate manufacturing of the vehicular circuit bodyand to reduce cost.

The power source line of the trunk line requires a large sectional areain order to secure a predetermined current capacity. Therefore, in acase where the power source line is formed of a routing material havinga flat conductor whose sectional shape is a flat strip shape, bending ina thickness direction is facilitated, and thus work for routing thepower source line along a predetermined routing path is facilitated. Ina case where the power source line is formed of a routing materialhaving a highly versatile round bar conductor or stranded wire, thepower source line can be easily manufactured and be freely bent in alldirections. Therefore, the routing property improves.

(2) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1), therouting material is formed by a plurality of kinds of the conductorscombined with each other.

According to the vehicular circuit body with the configuration of theabove (2), the routing material is formed by a flat conductor, a roundbar conductor, and a stranded wire combined as appropriate, and thus itis possible to provide a trunk line which has good routing propertyalong a routing path of a vehicle and is easily manufactured.

(3) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1) or (2), thetrunk line between the plurality of control boxes is formed of a routingmaterial having different kinds of conductors.

According to the vehicular circuit body with the configuration of theabove (3), the routing material having a conductor suitable for therouting path of the vehicle can be used for each trunk line between theplurality of control boxes.

(4) In the vehicular circuit body according to any one of the above (1)to (3), the trunk line includes a branch portion that branches at leastone of the power source line and the communication line into individuallines.

According to the vehicular circuit body with the configuration of theabove (4), since the trunk line branches into a plurality of trunk linesin the branch portion, control boxes disposed in a distribution mannerin the respective trunk lines can be disposed at respective locations ofa vehicle. Therefore, it is possible to easily supply power to or easilytransmit and receive communication data (signal) to and from accessoriesdisposed at the respective locations of the vehicle via the branch linesconnected to the control boxes, and thus it is also possible to shortenthe branch lines.

(5) In the vehicular circuit body according to any one of the above (1)to (4), the trunk line is connected to a sub-power source which isdifferent from a main power source for the power source line.

According to the vehicular circuit body with the configuration of theabove (5), the main power source and the sub-power source are disposedin a distribution manner in the power source line of the trunk line.Therefore, a voltage fluctuation in a case where power required in eachaccessory is high can be reduced by supplying a current from each powersource. In a case where the supply of power from one power source isstopped due to vehicle crash, power can be supplied from the other powersource, and thus it is possible to configure the power source line whichis not disconnected.

Since the main power source and the sub-power source disposed in avehicle in a distribution manner are connected to each other via thepower source line of the trunk line, regenerative energy can be easilyrecovered in an electric car or a hybrid car, and thus it is possible toimprove an energy recovery ratio.

Since a plurality of power sources are provided, power source backuphandling can be performed, and thus it is possible to reduce theinfluence when the power source is abnormal.

(6) In the vehicular circuit body according to any one of the above (1)to (5), the trunk line further includes an earth line having apredetermined current capacity.

According to the vehicular circuit body with the configuration of theabove (6), the earth line extends in parallel to the power source linein the trunk line, and thus it is possible to prevent sneaking of powersource noise into the communication line.

The power source line and the earth line formed of a routing materialhaving a flat conductor are disposed in a stacking manner such that asurface area of surfaces facing each other is increased and a gaptherebetween is reduced, so that it is possible to further improve thenoise resistance performance.

[Power Source-1]

In a vehicle, for example, it is necessary to cope with an automaticdriving technology, and thus it is necessary to improve reliability of apower source system of a wire harness. For example, even during vehiclecrash due to traffic accident, it is preferable that the supply of powerto an important on-vehicle apparatus is not stopped, and a problem canbe solved by only the vehicle itself. In a vehicular circuit body suchas a wire harness, there is the need for reducing component cost ormanufacturing cost by simplifying the configuration, or reducing thenumber of components by using a component in common to various kinds ofvehicles.

Therefore, the vehicular circuit body is configured as described in thefollowing (1) to (7).

(1) A vehicular circuit body provided in a vehicle, includes:

a trunk line that extends in at least a front-and-rear direction of thevehicle; and

a plurality of control boxes that are provided in the trunk line,

in which the trunk line includes power source lines of two systems and acommunication line.

With this configuration, since the power source lines of two systems areformed between the control boxes, one power source line is used forbackup so as to reduce a probability that the supply of power may bestopped, or power can be stably supplied by increasing a voltage of onesystem as necessary.

(2) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1), the powersource lines of two systems transmit power of the same voltage.

With this configuration, the power source lines of two systems can beused together, or one power source line can be used for backup,depending on situations.

(3) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1), the powersource lines of two systems transmit power of different voltages.

With this configuration, in a case where a load having large powerconsumption is connected, a large power source current flows, and thus avoltage drop in a supply line path increases. Thus, it is possible toprevent an increase in a power loss by selecting a higher power sourcevoltage.

(4) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1) to (3), theplurality of control boxes include a first control box, and a secondcontrol box located further toward a downstream side than the firstcontrol box with respect to a power source, and in which the firstcontrol box transmits power to the second control box by using only oneof the power source lines of two systems.

With this configuration, one of the power source lines of two systems issecured as a standby power source system, and in a case whereabnormality occurs in a power source line in use, switching to thestandby power source system can be performed.

(5) In the vehicular circuit body according to any one of the above (1)to (4), the vehicle circuit body further includes a branch line that isconnected to an accessory provided in the vehicle.

With this configuration, it is possible to collectively supply power tothe trunk line from a power source, and to distribute the power from thetrunk line to each accessory.

(6) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (5), one end ofthe branch line is connected to the control box.

With this configuration, it is possible to distribute power to besupplied to an accessory, from the control box.

(7) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1) to (6), thepower source lines of two systems are provided to extend in parallel.

With this configuration, the power source lines of two systems can bedisposed together by connecting the control boxes to each other via asingle trunk line.

[Power Source-2]

In vehicles, different numbers or different kinds of electric components(accessories) for each vehicle are connected due to a difference in avehicle, a difference in a grade, a difference in a destination, and adifference in an optional apparatus. If the number or the kind ofelectric component is changed, a configuration of a wire harness may bechanged. A new kind of electric component which is not expected duringdesign of a vehicle may be added to a vehicle in the future. In thiscase, preferably, the added electric component can be used by just beingconnected to an existing wire harness or the like which has already beenmounted in the vehicle. It is preferable that a connection position ofeach electric component can be changed as necessary. It is preferablethat the wire harness or the like can be configured by components incommon even if the kind of vehicle, or the number or the kind ofelectric component to be connected is changed.

Therefore, the vehicular circuit body is configured as described in thefollowing (1) and (2).

(1) A vehicular circuit body provided in a vehicle, includes:

a trunk line that extends in at least a front-and-rear direction of thevehicle;

a plurality of control boxes that are provided in the trunk line; and

a branch line that connects the control box to an accessory.

Each of the trunk line and the branch line includes a power source lineand a communication line.

Each of the plurality of control boxes includes a branch line connectionportion connected to a branch line, and a branch line control unit thatdistributes power from the trunk line to the branch line by controllingthe branch line connection portion according to a control program.

The control program can be externally changed according to an accessoryconnected to the branch line.

With this configuration, appropriate power can be supplied to anaccessory via the branch line from the trunk line by changing thecontrol program regardless of the kind of accessory connected to thebranch line.

(2) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1), the branchline connection portion includes a plurality of connectors connected toends of the branch lines, and the plurality of connectors have the sameshape.

With this configuration, a connector to be connected to a branch line isnot required to differ depending on an accessory, and thus it ispossible to easily increase the number of accessories or to easilychange accessories.

[Communication-1]

In a vehicle, for example, it is necessary to cope with an automaticdriving technology, and thus it is necessary to improve reliability of,for example, a communication system of a wire harness. For example, evenduring vehicle crash due to traffic accident, it is preferable that acommunication system used to control an important on-vehicle apparatuscan be maintained in a communicable state, and abnormality does notoccur in a vehicle control state. In a vehicular circuit body such as awire harness used as a communication path, there is the need forreducing component cost or manufacturing cost by simplifying theconfiguration, or reducing the number of components by using a componentin common to various kinds of vehicles.

Therefore, the vehicular circuit body is configured as described in thefollowing (1).

(1) A vehicular circuit body provided in a vehicle, includes:

a trunk line that extends in at least a front-and-rear direction of thevehicle; and

a plurality of control boxes that are provided in the trunk line.

The trunk line includes a power source line and a communication line.

The communication line is routed so that the plurality of control boxesare connected in a ring form.

With this configuration, even if a failure occurs in any communicationline connecting the plurality of control boxes to each other,communication can be continuously performed by using a route in adirection opposite to a location where the failure occurs. Therefore, itis possible to improve the reliability of communication on the trunkline of the vehicular circuit body.

[Communication-2]

Various electric components may be connected to a wire harness of avehicle. It is preferable to use a component in common or be able tofreely change a connection position of a connector or the like of anelectric component. Thus, it may be expected that a communicationstandard generally used is employed, or a plurality of connectors or thelike having a normal shape are prepared on a wire harness of a vehicle.However, for example, from the viewpoint of security, there is a casewhere some connectors are required not to be freely used by a user of avehicle or a third party unless special permission is given. However, ina case where a communication method based on a standard is employed, ora connector based on a standard is employed, a user or the like mayfreely use a connector in an unoccupied state, and thus a problem suchas security occurs.

Therefore, the vehicular circuit body is configured as described in thefollowing (1) to (5).

(1) A vehicular circuit body provided in a vehicle, includes:

a plurality of control boxes;

a trunk line that connects the plurality of control boxes to each other;and

a branch line that directly or indirectly connects a control box to anaccessory.

Each of the trunk line and the branch line includes a power source lineand a communication line.

Each of the control boxes includes a plurality of branch line connectionportions to and from which the communication line of the branch line isattachable and detachable.

The plurality of branch line connection portions are provided with alock function portion that is physically or electrically brought into alock state in a case where the branch line is not connected thereto.

With this configuration, even if branch line connection portions of thenumber larger than the number of connected branch lines at the presenttime are provided in the control box so that branch lines can beadditionally connected in the future, it is possible to prevent a branchline which should not be connected from being connected to a branch lineconnection portion to which no branch line is connected. Therefore, forexample, it is possible to prevent a program rewriting device from beingconnected to a branch line connection portion to which no branch line isconnected for the purpose of rewriting a program of a control unit of acontrol box with malice.

(2) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1), each ofthe plurality of branch line connection portions includes a connector toand from which an end of the communication line is attachable anddetachable, and in which the lock function portion includes a covermember that collectively covers openings of a plurality of theconnectors, and a key part that prevents the cover member from beingdetached from the connectors in a lock state.

With this configuration, in a case where a branch line is not requiredto be connected to any branch line connection portion at the presenttime, all connectors of the branch line connection portion arecollectively covered by the cover member, and the cover member cannot bedetached by the key part. Thus, a branch line can be prevented frombeing connected to a connector wrongly or with malice.

(3) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1), each ofthe plurality of branch line connection portions includes a connector toand from which an end of the communication line is attachable anddetachable. The lock function portion includes a cover member thatcovers at least a part of an opening of any one of the connectors, and akey part that prevents the cover member from being detached from theconnector in a lock state.

With this configuration, the cover member can be attached only to anecessary connector among the plurality of connectors and not bedetached. Therefore, in a case where branch lines are not connected tosome connectors among the plurality of connectors, the cover member isattached to the connectors, and thus branch lines can be prevented frombeing connected to the connectors wrongly or with malice.

(4) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1), each ofthe plurality of branch line connection portions includes a connector toand from which an end of the communication line is attachable anddetachable, and in which the lock function portion is a seal memberwhich covers an opening of at least one of the connectors, and the sealmember includes unsealing display means for identifying unsealing.

With this configuration, since the seal member has the unsealing displaymeans, it is possible to prevent a person with malice from connecting abranch line to a connector. In a case where a branch line is illegallyconnected to a connector, it is easy for a dealer or the like to findout the face.

(5) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1), each ofthe plurality of branch line connection portions transmits a signal to aconnected target object, and determines whether or not transmission andreception of signals to and from the target object are permitted on thebasis of a response to the signal from the target object.

With this configuration, even if a branch line which should not beconnected to the branch line connection portion is connected thereto,communication cannot be performed with a target object connected to thebranch line, and thus it is possible to prevent ill effects from beingexerted on a function of a control box or each accessory connected tothe branch line through illegal communication.

[Communication-3]

Regarding communication on a vehicle, an interface based on a pluralityof standards such as CAN, CXPI, and Ethernet (registered trademark) maybe used. The connected electric components may employ differentcommunication standards for each kind of vehicle, for each grade of avehicle, or for each area on a vehicle body. Since a device such as aspecial communication cable, connector, or communication interface isseparately prepared in order to connect communication apparatuses basedon different standards to each other, a configuration of a wire harnessmay be complicated and connection work may be troublesome.

Therefore, the vehicular circuit body is configured as described in thefollowing (1) and (2).

(1) A vehicular circuit body provided in a vehicle, includes:

a trunk line that extends in at least a front-and-rear direction of thevehicle;

a plurality of control boxes that are provided in the trunk line; and

a branch line that directly or indirectly connects a control box to anaccessory.

Each of the trunk line and the branch line includes a power source lineand a communication line.

The vehicle is divided into a plurality of regions.

At least two control boxes are disposed in regions which are differentfrom each other, each of which includes a gateway conversingcommunication methods for the communication line of the branch line andthe communication line of the trunk line.

A plurality of the gateways can perform communication with each othervia the communication line of the trunk line.

With this configuration, since the gateway conversing communicationmethods for the communication line of the trunk line and thecommunication line of the branch line is provided in each region of thevehicle, an accessory provided in a region is connected to a control boxprovided in the region via the branch line, and thus transmission andreception of signals can be performed between the accessory and thetrunk line.

(2) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1), thegateway changes a communication method to correspond to a communicationmethod used in the accessory which is connected to the gateway via thebranch line.

With this configuration, various kinds of accessories can be connectedto control boxes provided in the same regions as regions in which theaccessories are provided, regardless of a communication method.

[Communication-4]

On a vehicle, for example, it is desirable to connect a plurality ofapparatuses transmitting a large volume of data such as video signalscaptured by various cameras to each other. In such an environment,optical communication may be employed so that a large capacity ofcommunication can be performed at a high speed. However, if the entireon-vehicle system is connected by using an optical communicationnetwork, the system is inevitably very expensive.

Therefore, the vehicular circuit body is configured as described in thefollowing (1) and (2).

(1) A vehicular circuit body provided in a vehicle, includes:

a trunk line that extends in at least a front-and-rear direction of thevehicle;

a plurality of control boxes that are provided in the trunk line; and

a branch line that directly or indirectly connects a control box to anaccessory.

The trunk line includes a power source line and a communication line.

The branch line includes at least one of a power source line and acommunication line.

The communication line of the trunk line has a transmission path for anoptical signal, and the communication line of the branch line has atransmission path for an electric signal.

With this configuration, since the trunk line connecting the controlboxes to each other has the transmission path for an optical signal, itis possible to increase a transmission capacity between the controlboxes. Since an optical signal is used, it is hardly influenced byelectromagnetic noise generated in the power source line of the trunkline or external apparatuses, and thus it is possible to increasereliability of communication.

(2) In the vehicular circuit body according to the above (1), at leastone communication line of the trunk line directly connects two of theplurality of control boxes to each other.

With this configuration, two control boxes are directly connected toeach other via a transmission path for an optical signal, and thustransmission and reception of signals can be performed at a high speed.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, specific embodiments of a vehicular circuit body of thepresent invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

First Embodiment (Vehicular Circuit Body)

First, a description will be made on a fundamental configuration of avehicular circuit body.

FIG. 1 illustrates a layout and a connection state of each portion, anda summary of each module mounted on a vehicle body in a state in which avehicular circuit body 10 according to a first embodiment of the presentinvention is routed on the vehicle body.

The vehicular circuit body of the present invention is used to supplypower from a main power source such as an on-vehicle battery to anaccessory (electric component) at each vehicle body location or used astransmission paths required to transmit and receive signals betweenelectric components (refer to FIG. 1). In other words, a function of thevehicular circuit body of the first embodiment is the same as a generalwire harness mounted in a vehicle, but a shape or a structure thereof isgreatly different from that of the general wire harness.

Specifically, in order to simplify the structure, a trunk line includinga power source line having a predetermined current capacity, acommunication line having a predetermined communication capacity, and anearth line is formed of a routing material 20 having a simple shape suchas a backbone. The “predetermined current capacity” is, for example, acurrent capacity which is necessary and sufficient when all electriccomponents mountable on an attachment target vehicle are mounted thereonand are used, and the “predetermined communication capacity” is, forexample, a communication capacity which is necessary and sufficient whenall electric components mountable on the attachment target vehicle aremounted thereon and are used. Various accessories (electric components)can be connected via branch lines which are connected to a plurality ofcontrol boxes disposed along this trunk line in a distribution manner.

The vehicular circuit body 10 according to the first embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes, as fundamental constituentelements, a trunk line (backbone trunk line portion 15) routed in avehicle body 1 and having a power source line 21 and a communicationline 29; branch lines (instrument panel branch line sub-harnesses 31,front door branch line sub-harnesses 63, rear door branch linesub-harnesses 65, a center console branch line sub-harness 66, frontseat branch line sub-harnesses 67, rear seat branch line sub-harnesses68, and luggage branch line sub-harnesses 69) connected to electriccomponents at respective vehicle body locations; and a plurality ofcontrol boxes (a supply side control box 51, a branch control box 53, anintermediate control box 57, and control boxes 55 and 59) disposed alongthe trunk line in a distribution manner and having a control unit fordistributing power from the power source line 21 supplied to the trunkline and signals from the communication line 29 to the branch linesconnected to the trunk line.

The backbone trunk line portion 15 of the vehicular circuit body 10according to the first embodiment is broadly divided into an instrumentpanel backbone trunk line portion 11 and a floor backbone trunk lineportion 13.

The instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 is linearly disposedin a leftward-and-rightward direction at a location along a surface of adash panel 50 so as to be substantially in parallel to a reinforcement(not illustrated) at a position above the reinforcement. The instrumentpanel backbone trunk line portion 11 may be fixed to the reinforcement.

The floor backbone trunk line portion 13 is disposed to extend in afront-and-rear direction of the vehicle body 1 substantially at thecenter of the vehicle body 1 in the leftward-and-rightward directionalong a vehicle interior floor, and linearly extends in anupward-and-downward direction at the location along the surface of thedash panel 50 so that a tip end thereof is connected to an intermediatepart of the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11. Connectionportions of the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 and thefloor backbone trunk line portion 13 are in a state of beingelectrically connectable to each other via a branch portion of thebranch control box 53 which will be described later. In other words, thebackbone trunk line portion 15 is configured in a shape similar to a Tshape by the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 and thefloor backbone trunk line portion 13.

The instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 is connected to anengine compartment sub-harness 61 via the supply side control box 51which is disposed on the left of the vehicle body 1 which is an upstreamside of the backbone trunk line portion 15. The engine compartmentsub-harness 61 has a main power source cable 81 which electricallyconnects a main battery 5 and an alternator 3 which are main powersources disposed in an engine room (engine compartment) 41 to eachother.

Here, the dash panel 50 is disposed at a boundary between the engineroom 41 and a vehicle interior 43, and a location where an electricalconnection member penetrates through the dash panel 50 is required to beperfectly sealed. In other words, the dash panel 50 is required to havefunctions of insulating vibration from the engine room 41, reducingvibration or noise from a suspension, and blocking heat, noise, andsmell in order to maintain the vehicle interior 43 to be comfortable.Sufficient consideration is also required for the penetration locationof the electrical connection member in order to prevent the functionsfrom being impaired.

As described above, principal constituent elements of the vehicularcircuit body 10 according to the first embodiment, that is, theinstrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11, the floor backbonetrunk line portion 13, the supply side control box 51, the branchcontrol box 53, the intermediate control box 57, and the control boxes55 and 59 are all disposed in a space on a vehicle interior 43 side. Themain power source cable 81 connected to the supply side control box 51provided at the left end of the instrument panel backbone trunk lineportion 11 is routed to pass through a grommet 85 which is fitted into apenetration hole of the dash panel 50, and is thus connected to theengine compartment sub-harness 61 inside the engine room 41.Consequently, power from the main power source can be supplied to thesupply side control box 51. Since an easily bendable material can beused for the main power source cable 81, a sectional shape thereof canbe made a circular shape, or a sectional area thereof can be madesmaller than that of the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion11, sealing using the grommet 85 can be facilitated, and thus it ispossible to prevent workability from degrading when routing work isperformed.

In a case where various electric components in the engine room 41 are tobe connected to the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 inthe vehicle interior 43, for example, a sub-harness 71 connected to thesupply side control box 51 is provided to pass through the dash panel50, or a sub-harness 73 connected to the control box 55 is provided topass through the dash panel 50, and thus a desired electrical connectionpath can be realized. In this case, since the sub-harnesses 71 and 73have small sectional areas and are easily bent, a location where thesub-harnesses pass through the dash panel 50 can be easily sealed.

The instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 is connected to theinstrument panel branch line sub-harnesses (branch lines) 31 and thefront door branch line sub-harnesses (branch line) 63 via the supplyside control box 51 and the control box 55.

Each of the instrument panel branch line sub-harnesses 31 iselectrically connected to a module driver 30 b of an instrument panelharness 30 a which is electrically connected to a control unit of anelectric component such as a meter panel or an air conditioner mountedon an instrument panel module 30, via a module connector C.

Each of the front door branch line sub-harnesses 63 is preferablyconnected to a module driver 33 b of a front door harness 33 a which iselectrically connected to a control unit of an electric component suchas a door lock or a power window mounted on a front door 33, so thatnoncontact power supply and near-field wireless communication can beperformed.

The floor backbone trunk line portion 13 is connected to the rear doorbranch line sub-harnesses (branch lines) 65, the center console branchline sub-harness (branch line) 66, the front seat branch linesub-harnesses (branch lines) 67, the rear seat branch line sub-harnesses(branch lines) 68, and a sub-battery 7 via the intermediate control box57.

Each of rear door branch line sub-harnesses 65 is preferably connectedto a module driver 35 b of a rear door sub-harness 35 a which iselectrically connected to a control unit of an electric component suchas a door lock or a power window mounted on a rear door 35, so thatnoncontact power supply and near-field wireless communication can beperformed.

The center console branch line sub-harness 66 is electrically connectedto a module driver 39 b of a center console harness 39 a which iselectrically connected to a control unit of an electric component suchas an operation panel of an air conditioner or an audio mounted on acenter console 39, via a module connector C.

Each of the front seat branch line sub-harnesses 67 is electricallyconnected to a module driver 37 b of a front seat harness 37 a which iselectrically connected to a control unit of an electric component suchas an electric recliner or a seat heater mounted in a front seat 37, viaa module connector C.

Each of the rear seat branch line sub-harnesses 68 is electricallyconnected to a module driver 38 b of a rear seat harness 38 a which iselectrically connected to a control unit of an electric component suchas an electric recliner or a seat heater mounted in a rear seat 38, viaa module connector C.

The floor backbone trunk line portion 13 is connected to the luggagebranch line sub-harnesses (branch lines) 69 via a control box 59 whichis disposed on the rear side of the vehicle body 1 which is a downstreamside of the trunk line.

The luggage branch line sub-harnesses 69 are electrically connected tomodule drivers (not illustrated) of luggage harnesses which areelectrically connected to control units of various electric componentsin a luggage room, via module connectors C.

The module connectors C can collectively connect the power sources andthe ground to the control boxes so as to efficiently transmit power andsignals to the backbone trunk line portion 15 and the respectiveaccessories.

(Routing Material)

The backbone trunk line portion 15 of the vehicular circuit body 10according to the first embodiment has the power source line 21, thecommunication line 29, and the earth line 27, each of which is formed ofthe routing material 20 including a flat conductor 100.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 1, a case where there is thesub-battery (sub-power source) 7 is assumed, and thus the backbone trunkline portion 15 of the vehicular circuit body 10 includes a main powersource system (power source line) 23 and a sub-power source system(power source line) 25 as the power source line 21.

The routing material 20 according to the first embodiment employs theflat conductor 100 made of a metal material (for example, a copper alloyor aluminum) whose sectional shape is a flat strip shape, and is formedby stacking the flat conductor 100 whose periphery is covered with aninsulating coat 110 in a thickness direction, for the power source line21, the earth line 27, and the communication line 29 of the backbonetrunk line portion 15 (refer to FIG. 1). In other words, the main powersource system 23 is stacked on the sub-power source system 25 formingthe power source line 21, and, for example, the communication line 29 inwhich a pair of flat conductors are arranged side by side is stacked onthe earth line 27 stacked on the main power source system 23.

Consequently, the routing material 20 allows a large current to passtherethrough, and bending processing in the thickness direction isrelatively facilitated. The routing material 20 can be routed in a statein which the power source line 21 and the earth line 27 extend to beadjacent to each other in parallel, and can prevent sneaking of powersource noise since the earth line 27 is stacked between thecommunication line 29 and the power source line 21.

The power source line 21 of the backbone trunk line portion 15 requiresa large sectional area in order to secure a predetermined currentcapacity, but the power source line 21 of the present embodiment isformed of the routing material 20 having the flat conductor 100 whosesectional shape is a flat strip shape so that bending in the thicknessdirection is facilitated, and thus work for routing the power sourceline 21 along a predetermined routing path is facilitated.

(Control Boxes)

The vehicular circuit body 10 according to the first embodiment isprovided with five control boxes such as the supply side control box 51disposed at an upstream end (the left end of the instrument panelbackbone trunk line portion 11) of the backbone trunk line portion 15,the branch control box 53 disposed in a branch portion (a connectionportion between the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 andthe floor backbone trunk line portion 13) in the middle of the backbonetrunk line portion 15, the intermediate control box 57 disposed in themiddle (an intermediate portion of the floor backbone trunk line portion13) of the backbone trunk line portion 15, and the control boxes 55 and59 disposed at downstream ends (the right end of the instrument panelbackbone trunk line portion 11 and the rear end of the floor backbonetrunk line portion 13) of the backbone trunk line portion 15.

As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the supply side control box 51 is providedwith a main power source connection portion 120 which connects the mainpower source cable 81 to the instrument panel backbone trunk lineportion 11, and a branch line connection portion 121 which connectsfront door branch line sub-harness 63 or a sub-harness 71 thereto. Thesupply side control box 51 can connect power source systems, earthsystems, and communication systems of respective circuits to each otheramong the main power source cable 81, the instrument panel backbonetrunk line portion 11, the front door branch line sub-harness 63, andthe sub-harness 71.

As illustrated in FIG. 3B, the supply side control box 51 accommodates acircuit board 125 in a case formed of a lower case 122 and an upper case124. Male terminals 130 which are electrically connected to therespective flat conductors 100 of the sub-power source system 25, themain power source system 23, and the earth line 27 are fitted to threefemale terminals 127 mounted on the circuit board 125. The sub-powersource system 25, the main power source system 23, the earth line 27,and the communication line 29 in the instrument panel backbone trunkline portion 11 are electrically branch-connected to a plurality ofboard connectors 131 provided at one edge of the circuit board 125 inorder to form the branch line connection portion 121, via circuits orbus bars formed on the board.

The main power source connection portion 120 includes a power sourceconnection part 133 connected to a power source line 82 of the mainpower source cable 81, and an earth connection part 135 connected to anearth line 84 thereof.

As illustrated in FIG. 4A, the flat conductor 100 of the main powersource system 23 is connected to a stud bolt (power input terminal) 141of the power source connection part 133 embedded in the lower case 122.The flat conductor 100 of the earth line 27 is connected to a stud bolt(power input terminal) 143 of the earth connection part 135 embedded inthe lower case 122. The communication line 29 is connected to thecircuit board 125 via, for example, a board connector (not illustrated).

As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the circuit board 125 is fixed to the lowercase 122 so that the respective female terminals 127 are fitted to themale terminals 130 which are respectively electrically connected to theflat conductors 100. The circuit board 125 is mounted with a controlunit 151 which distributes power from the power source line 21 andsignals from the communication line 29 to the engine compartmentsub-harness 61, the front door branch line sub-harness 63, or thesub-harness 71. The circuit board 125 is mounted with a plurality ofelectric components (accessories), and switching circuits 153 eachincluding a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) device and a circuitmodule, as constituent elements which are required to switch betweenconnection states of the electric components.

As illustrated in FIG. 4C, a terminal 86 crimped to an end of the powersource line 82 of the main power source cable 81 is nut-fastened to theflat conductor 100 of the main power source system 23 in the powersource connection part 133. A terminal 86 crimped to an end of the earthline 84 of the main power source cable 81 is nut-fastened to the flatconductor 100 of the earth line 27 in the earth connection part 135. Inthe above-described way, the main power source cable 81 can be connectedand fixed to the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11.

The board connectors 131 of the branch line connection portion 121 areconnector-connected to the instrument panel branch line sub-harness 31,the front door branch line sub-harness 63, and the module connector Cconnected to an end of the sub-harness 71. The module connectors C cantransmit power from the power source line 21 and the earth line 27 andsignals from the communication line 29 to respective electriccomponents.

As illustrated in FIG. 6A, the branch control box 53 is disposed in thebranch portion in the middle of the backbone trunk line portion 15,which is the connection portion between the instrument panel backbonetrunk line portion 11 and the floor backbone trunk line portion 13, andincludes the branch line connection portion 121 for connectingsub-harnesses (branch lines) connected to electric components (notillustrated). The branch control box 53 can connect power sourcesystems, earth systems, and communication systems of respective circuitsto each other among the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11,the floor backbone trunk line portion 13, and the sub-harnesses.

In the same manner as the supply side control box 51, the branch controlbox 53 accommodates a circuit board 125 in a case formed of a lower case122 and an upper case 124. The sub-power source system 25, the mainpower source system 23, the earth line 27, and the communication line 29in the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 are electricallybranch-connected to a plurality of board connectors 131 provided at oneedge of the circuit board 125, via circuits or bus bars formed on theboard.

The sub-power source systems 25, the main power source systems 23, andthe earth lines 27 in the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion11 and the floor backbone trunk line portion 13 may be electricallyconnected and fixed to each other, for example, by welding orbolt-fastening the flat conductors 100 thereof (refer to FIG. 14). Thecommunication lines 29 in the instrument panel backbone trunk lineportion 11 and the floor backbone trunk line portion 13 may beelectrically connected and fixed to each other, for example, throughconnector connection.

As illustrated in FIG. 6B, the control box 55 is disposed at thedownstream end of the backbone trunk line portion 15, which is the rightend of the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11, and includesa branch line connection portion 121 for connection to the front doorbranch line sub-harness 63 or a sub-harness 73. The control box 55 canconnect power source systems, earth systems, and communication systemsof respective circuits to each other among the instrument panel backbonetrunk line portion 11, the front door branch line sub-harness 63, andthe sub-harness 73.

In the same manner as the supply side control box 51, the control box 55accommodates a circuit board 125 in a case formed of a lower case 122and an upper case 124. Male terminals 130 which are electricallyconnected to the respective flat conductors 100 of the sub-power sourcesystem 25, the main power source system 23, and the earth line 27 arefitted into three female terminals 127 mounted on the circuit board 125(refer to FIG. 3B). The sub-power source system 25, the main powersource system 23, the earth line 27, and the communication line 29 inthe instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 are electricallybranch-connected to a plurality of board connectors 131 provided at oneedge of the circuit board 125 in order to form the branch lineconnection portion 121, via circuits or bus bars formed on the board.

The control box 59 disposed at the rear end of the floor backbone trunkline portion 13 has the same configuration as that of the control box55.

As illustrated in FIG. 6C, the intermediate control box 57 is disposedin the middle of the backbone trunk line portion 15, which is anintermediate portion of the floor backbone trunk line portion 13, andincludes a branch line connection portion 121 for connection to the reardoor branch line sub-harnesses 65, the center console branch linesub-harness 66, the front seat branch line sub-harnesses 67, the rearseat branch line sub-harnesses 68, and the sub-battery 7. Theintermediate control box 57 can connect power source systems, earthsystems, and communication systems of respective circuits to each otheramong the floor backbone trunk line portion 13, the rear door branchline sub-harnesses 65, the center console branch line sub-harness 66,the front seat branch line sub-harnesses 67, the rear seat branch linesub-harnesses 68, and the sub-battery 7.

In the same manner as the supply side control box 51, the intermediatecontrol box 57 accommodates a circuit board 125 in a case formed of alower case 122 and an upper case 124. The sub-power source system 25,the main power source system 23, the earth line 27, and thecommunication line 29 in the floor backbone trunk line portion 13 areelectrically branch-connected to a plurality of board connectors 131provided at one edge of the circuit board 125, via circuits or bus barsformed on the board.

The above-described respective control boxes (the supply side controlbox 51, the branch control box 53, the intermediate control box 57, andthe control boxes 55 and 59) can cope with most vehicle models byappropriately changing a plurality of kinds of circuit boards 125 havingthe branch line connection portions 121 corresponding to a grade or atarget specification of an attachment target vehicle, and thus it ispossible to reduce the number of components by using a component incommon.

For example, a circuit board 126 illustrated in FIG. 5A includes threeboard connectors 131 forming the branch line connection portion 121, acontrol unit 151, and a single switching circuit 153.

In contrast, a circuit board 125 illustrated in FIG. 5B includes sixboard connectors 131 forming the branch line connection portion 121, acontrol unit 151, and three switching circuits 153.

The circuit board 126 and the circuit board 125 can be accommodated in acommon case formed of a lower case 122 and an upper case 124.

(Module)

In the vehicular circuit body 10 according to the first embodiment, theinstrument panel branch line sub-harnesses 31, the front door branchline sub-harnesses 63, the rear door branch line sub-harnesses 65, thecenter console branch line sub-harness 66, the front seat branch linesub-harnesses 67, the rear seat branch line sub-harnesses 68, and thelike, which are connected to the backbone trunk line portion 15 asbranch lines, are configured as modules integrated with the instrumentpanel module 30, the front doors 33, the rear doors 35, the centerconsole 39, the front seats 37, the rear seats 38, and the like.

In other words, the instrument panel branch line sub-harness 31 isconnected to the module driver 30 b of the instrument panel harness 30 awhich is electrically connected to a control unit of an electriccomponent mounted on the instrument panel module 30, and can thus beconfigured as a module integrated with the instrument panel module 30.

Each of the front door branch line sub-harnesses 63 is connected to themodule driver 33 b of the front door harness 33 a which is electricallyconnected to a control unit of an electric component mounted on thefront door 33, so that noncontact power supply and near-field wirelesscommunication can be performed, and can thus be configured as a moduleintegrated with the front door 33.

Each of rear door branch line sub-harnesses 65 is connected to themodule driver 35 b of the rear door sub-harness 35 a which iselectrically connected to a control unit of an electric componentmounted on the rear door 35, so that noncontact power supply andnear-field wireless communication can be performed, and can thus beconfigured as a module integrated with the rear door 35.

The center console branch line sub-harness 66 is electrically connectedto the module driver 39 b of the center console harness 39 a which iselectrically connected to a control unit of an electric componentmounted on a center console 39, and can thus be configured as a moduleintegrated with the instrument panel module 30.

Each of the front seat branch line sub-harnesses 67 is electricallyconnected to the module driver 37 b of the front seat harness 37 a whichis electrically connected to a control unit of an electric componentmounted in the front seat 37, and can thus be configured as a moduleintegrated with the front seat 37.

Each of the rear seat branch line sub-harnesses 68 is electricallyconnected to the module driver 38 b of the rear seat harness 38 a whichis electrically connected to a control unit of an electric componentmounted in the rear seat 38, and can thus be configured as a moduleintegrated with the rear seat 38.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the instrument panel module 30 according tothe present embodiment is formed of a plurality of instrument panelsub-modules such as a glove box 32, a center cluster 34, and a steeringwheel 36 along with an instrument panel main body.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the supply side control box 51 disposed on theleft side in the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 islocated on the left side in the vehicle body 1 of the instrument panelmodule 30 to which the glove box 32 is attached.

Therefore, in a case where a mechanical relay or a mechanical fuse fordistributing power is provided in the supply side control box 51 whichis electrically connected to the main battery 5 via the main powersource cable 81, the mechanical relay or the mechanical fuse in thesupply side control box 51 can be easily accessed by detaching the glovebox 32, and thus the maintenance for exchanging the mechanical relay orthe mechanical fuse is facilitated.

(Branch Box)

The vehicular circuit body 10 according to the present embodiment may beprovided with a branch box 161 in the middle of the backbone trunk lineportion 15 (for example, in the middle of the floor backbone trunk lineportion 13) as illustrated in FIG. 8. The branch box 161 is connectedto, for example, the sub-battery 7.

In order to provide the branch box 161 in the middle of the floorbackbone trunk line portion 13, first, as illustrated in FIG. 9A, theinsulating coats 110 are peeled off at predetermined locations of thesub-power source system 25, the main power source system 23, the earthline 27 so as to expose the flat conductors 100, and connectionterminals 171, 172 and 173 are respectively connected to the flatconductors 100 through welding or the like.

Next, as illustrated in FIG. 9B, the sub-power source system 25, themain power source system 23, and the earth line 27 are stacked so thatthe connection terminals 171, 172 and 173 are arranged side by side.

As illustrated in FIG. 9C, the portion from which the insulating coat110 of the floor backbone trunk line portion 13 is peeled off is coveredwith a case 162 in which three stud bolts 167 are studded, and the studbolts 167 are respectively attached to the connection terminals 171, 172and 173 so as to penetrate through penetration holes thereof.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, LA terminals 166 crimped to ends of powersource cables 163, 164 and 165 connected to the sub-battery 7 areinserted with the stud bolts 167, and are fixed thereto with nuts.Therefore, the sub-power source system 25 and the main power sourcesystem 23 are connected to a positive electrode of the sub-battery 7 viathe power source cables 163 and 164, and the earth line 27 is connectedto a negative electrode of the sub-battery 7 via the power source cable165.

As mentioned above, the branch box 161 is provided in the middle of thefloor backbone trunk line portion 13, so that the sub-battery 7 can bereliability and easily connected to the floor backbone trunk lineportion 13.

(Effects of Vehicular Circuit Body)

As described above, according to the vehicular circuit body 10 of thefirst embodiment, it is possible to provide a vehicular circuit bodywith a simple structure by using the backbone trunk line portion 15which has a predetermined current capacity and a predeterminedcommunication capacity and is routed in the vehicle body 1; and thebranch lines (the instrument panel branch line sub-harnesses 31, thefront door branch line sub-harnesses 63, the rear door branch linesub-harnesses 65, the center console branch line sub-harness 66, thefront seat branch line sub-harnesses 67, the rear seat branch linesub-harnesses 68, the luggage branch line sub-harnesses 69, and thelike) which connect electric components at respective vehicle bodylocations to the backbone trunk line portion 15 via the five controlboxes (the supply side control box 51, the branch control box 53, theintermediate control box 57, and the control boxes 55 and 59) disposedin a distribution manner along the backbone trunk line portion 15.

In other words, it becomes easier to manufacture the backbone trunk lineportion 15 which has a simple shape as a whole and is formed of theinstrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 extending in theleftward-and-rightward direction of the vehicle body 1 and the floorbackbone trunk line portion 13 extending in the front-and-rear directionof the vehicle body 1 substantially at the center of the vehicle body 1.The backbone trunk line portion 15 has a division structure of beingable to be divided into a plurality of portions among the control boxes,and the portions can be connected to each other via the control boxes.

The branch lines (the instrument panel branch line sub-harnesses 31, thefront door branch line sub-harnesses 63, the rear door branch linesub-harnesses 65, the center console branch line sub-harness 66, thefront seat branch line sub-harnesses 67, the rear seat branch linesub-harnesses 68, the luggage branch line sub-harnesses 69, and thelike) connected to the plurality of control boxes (the supply sidecontrol box 51, the branch control box 53, the intermediate control box57, and the control boxes 55 and 59) disposed in a distribution manneralong the backbone trunk line portion 15 are results obtained throughsubdivision for the respective areas of the vehicle body, and electricwire lengths can be reduced since circuit specification differences ofthe respective areas are distributed. Therefore, it is possible toimprove the productivity, and also to reduce the transport cost since apacking ratio of miniaturized branch lines obtained through subdivisionincreases.

The vehicular circuit body 10 is separately formed of the backbone trunkline portion 15 which is used in common to a plurality of vehiclemodels, grades, or options, and the branch lines (the instrument panelbranch line sub-harnesses 31, the front door branch line sub-harnesses63, the rear door branch line sub-harnesses 65, the center consolebranch line sub-harness 66, the front seat branch line sub-harnesses 67,the rear seat branch line sub-harnesses 68, the luggage branch linesub-harnesses 69, and the like) which are changed depending on aplurality of vehicle models, grades, or to optional accessories.Therefore, even if the number of vehicle models, grades, or optionalaccessories increases, only the branch lines having different wiringsneed to be prepared depending on a plurality of vehicle models, grades,or optional accessories, and thus it is possible to facilitatemanufacturing of the vehicular circuit body 10 and to reduce cost.

The backbone trunk line portion 15 according to the first embodiment isformed in a T shape in which the power source line 21 and thecommunication line 29 branch at the branch portion at which the branchcontrol box 53 is disposed and which is a connection portion between theinstrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 and the floor backbonetrunk line portion 13. Therefore, since the backbone trunk line portion15 branches into a plurality of portions in the branch portion, aplurality of control boxes (the supply side control box 51, the branchcontrol box 53, the intermediate control box 57, and the control boxes55 and 59) disposed in a distribution manner in the instrument panelbackbone trunk line portion 11 and the floor backbone trunk line portion13 can be disposed at respective locations of the vehicle body 1.Therefore, it is possible to easily supply power to or easily transmitand receive communication data (signal) to and from accessories(electric components) disposed at the respective locations of thevehicle body 1 via the branch lines (the instrument panel branch linesub-harnesses 31, the front door branch line sub-harnesses 63, the reardoor branch line sub-harnesses 65, the center console branch linesub-harness 66, the front seat branch line sub-harnesses 67, the rearseat branch line sub-harnesses 68, the luggage branch line sub-harnesses69, and the like) connected to the control boxes. Thus, it is alsopossible to shorten the branch lines.

The trunk line of the present invention is not limited to a T shapeformed by the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 and thefloor backbone trunk line portion 13, and may employ various forms suchas an I shape or an H shape.

According to the vehicular circuit body 10 of the first embodiment, themain battery (main power source) 5 and the sub-battery (sub-powersource) 7 are disposed in a distribution manner in the power source line21 of the backbone trunk line portion 15. Therefore, a voltagefluctuation in a case where power required in each accessory (electriccomponent) is high can be reduced by supplying a current from each powersource. In a case where the supply of power from one power source isstopped due to vehicle crash, power can be supplied from the other powersource, and thus it is possible to configure the power source line 21which is not disconnected.

Since the main battery 5 and the sub-battery 7 disposed in a vehicle ina distribution manner are connected to each other via the power sourceline 21 of the backbone trunk line portion 15, regenerative energy canbe easily recovered in an electric car or a hybrid car, and thus it ispossible to improve an energy recovery ratio.

Since a plurality of power sources are provided, power source backuphandling can be performed, and thus it is possible to reduce theinfluence when the power source is abnormal.

(Modification Examples)

Hereinafter, a detailed description will be made on a modificationexample of each configuration of the vehicular circuit body 10 accordingto the first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a modificationexample of a routing material according to the present embodiment.

A routing material 180 forming a backbone trunk line portion is providedwith a power source line 181 and an earth line 183 formed of aluminumflat conductors, and a communication line 185 formed of a flexibleprinted circuit (FPC).

Therefore, the routing material 180 can be routed in a state in whichthe power source line 181 and the earth line 183 are disposed to beadjacent to each other in parallel, and can prevent sneaking of powersource noise since the earth line 183 is stacked between thecommunication line 185 and the power source line 181.

Since the power source line 181 and the earth line 183 in the routingmaterial 180 are formed of the aluminum flat conductors and thecommunication line 185 is formed of the FPC, a lightweight and thinbackbone trunk line portion can be provided.

FIG. 11 is a principal portion perspective view illustrating amodification example of a flat conductor according to the presentembodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 11, a flat conductor 190 for forming a powersource line or an earth line has a thin plate portion 191 formed at apart thereof in a longitudinal direction as appropriate.

Therefore, the flat conductor 190 is easily bent at the thin plateportion 191 in a plate thickness direction, and can thus be easily bentalong a shape of a vehicle body when a backbone trunk line portion isrouted in the vehicle body 1. Thus, it is possible to improve therouting property of the backbone trunk line portion.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view for explaining a fuse provided in a flatconductor according to the present embodiment.

A power source line 193 connected to a battery is formed of a flatconductor, and an attachment hole 197 into which a battery post isfitted is formed at a tip end thereof.

A fuse 195 is integrally formed on a basal end side of the attachmenthole 197. The fuse 195 is obtained by providing a meltable member 199made of a low melting metal in a small-diameter portion in which a widthof the flat conductor is reduced. The fuse 195 is covered with a fusehousing 192 having a transparent lid 194.

According to the power source line 193 integrally having the fuse 195,it is not necessary to separately provide a fuse when the power sourceline is connected to a battery, and the number of components can beprevented from increasing.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view and a sectional view for explaining anexample in which a power source line and an earth line formed of flatconductors according to the present embodiment are connected to abattery.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, a power source line 201 and an earth line 203in a backbone trunk line portion are formed of flat conductors, and havepenetration holes formed at tip ends thereof.

An L-shaped bus bar 217 bent inward is electrically connected and fixedto a positive terminal 213 of a battery 210, and an L-shaped bus bar 215bent inward is electrically connected and fixed to a negative terminal211. Penetration holes respectively formed at tip ends of theintersecting bus bars 215 and 217 are concentrically disposed so that abolt 221 can penetrate therethrough.

The power source line 201 overlaps an upper surface of the bus bar 217and the earth line 203 overlaps a lower surface of the bus bar 215 withan insulating sheet 219 having a hole interposed therebetween at the tipends of the bus bars 215 and 217, and, in this state, the bolt 221penetrating therethrough is fastened and fixed by a nut 223.

As a result, the power source line 201 is connected to the positiveterminal 213 of the battery 210 via the bus bar 217, and the earth line203 is connected to the negative terminal 211 of the battery 210 via thebus bar 215, without using a complex connection structure.

According to the battery connection structure, since the power sourceline 201 and the earth line 203 formed of flat conductors can beseparately connected to the battery 210 in a state of being routed inparallel, it is possible to improve noise resistance.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view for explaining a connection structureexample of a routing material formed of flat conductors according to thepresent embodiment.

In a connection structure illustrated in FIG. 14, for example, in thebranch control box 53 illustrated in FIG. 6A, the flat conductors 100 ofthe sub-power source systems 25, the main power source systems 23, andthe earth lines 27 in the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion11 and the floor backbone trunk line portion 13 are electricallyconnected and fixed to each other through bolt-fastening.

First, parts of the insulating coats 110 of the sub-power source system25, the main power source system 23, and the earth line 27 in theinstrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 are peeled off so as toexpose the flat conductors 100, and penetration holes are formedtherein. Parts of the insulating coats 110 of the sub-power sourcesystem 25, the main power source system 23, and the earth line 27 in thefloor backbone trunk line portion 13 are peeled off so as to expose theflat conductors 100, and penetration holes are formed therein.

Next, the flat conductors 100 of the sub-power source system 25, themain power source system 23, and the earth line 27 in the floor backbonetrunk line portion 13 respectively overlap the flat conductors 100 ofthe sub-power source system 25, the main power source system 23, and theearth line 27 in the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11.

Insulating plate 237 having holes are interposed between the overlappingsub-power source systems 25 and the overlapping main power sourcesystems 23, and between the overlapping main power source systems 23 andthe overlapping earth lines 27, and, in this state, an insulating bolt238 penetrating therethrough is fastened and fixed by an insulating nut239. The insulating bolt 238 and the insulating nut 239 are preferablymade of electrically insulating engineering plastic or ceramic.

As a result, the flat conductors 100 of the sub-power source systems 25,the main power source systems 23, and the earth lines 27 in theinstrument panel backbone trunk line portion 11 and the floor backbonetrunk line portion 13 are firmly fastened to each other with the bolt.

FIG. 15 shows perspective views for explaining arrangements of powersource lines according to the present embodiment.

A routing material 240 illustrated in FIG. 15A includes a sub-powersource system 241, a main power source system 243, an earth line 245,and a communication line 247, each of which is formed of an electricwire having a stranded wire.

The routing material 240 is formed of the electric wires having highlyversatile stranded wires, and can thus be easily manufactured and befreely bent in all directions. Therefore, the routing property improves.

It is assumed that the routing material 240 has sufficient currentcapacities which can be used together in a backbone trunk line portion,such as 12 volts and 48 volts. Therefore, in a case where a voltage of12 volts is supplied to the backbone trunk line portion and powerconsumption of an accessory is large during a normal operation, avoltage of 48 volts boosted by a DC/DC converter (high voltage/lowvoltage converter) is supplied to the backbone trunk line portion. Asmentioned above, the backbone trunk line portion is used while switchingbetween 12 volts and 48 volts, and thus it is possible to easilycompensate a power source voltage for an accessory.

A routing material 250 illustrated in FIG. 15B has a power source system251 for 12 volts, an earth line 255 for 12 volts, a power source system253 for 48 volts, and an earth line 257 for 48 volts arranged side byside, each of which is formed of an electric wire having a strandedwire.

Therefore, a backbone trunk line portion including the routing material250 is also used while switching between 12 volts and 48 volts, and thusit is possible to easily compensate a power source voltage for anaccessory.

A routing material 260 illustrated in FIG. 15C has a power source system251 for 12 volts, an earth line 259 used in common for 12 volts and 48volts, and a power source system 253 for 48 volts arranged side by side,each of which is formed of an electric wire having a stranded wire.

Therefore, it is possible to reduce a space or a weight by reducing thenumber of electric wires as a result of using a backbone trunk lineportion including the routing material 260.

FIG. 16 shows perspective views for explaining arrangements of routingmaterials according to the present embodiment.

A routing material 270 illustrated in FIG. 16A has a configuration inwhich twisted lines of a main power source system 272 and an earth line274 are overlapped on twisted lines of a sub-power source system 271 andan earth line 273, and twisted lines of communication lines 275 and 276are overlapped thereon.

Therefore, in the routing material 270, the noise resistance performancecan be improved by canceling noise due to twisting.

A routing material 280 illustrated in FIG. 16B has a configuration inwhich an earth line 283, a main power source system 282, an earth line283, and a communication line 285 are sequentially stacked on asub-power source system 281 formed of a flat conductor.

Therefore, in the routing material 280, the noise resistance performancecan be improved by disposing the earth lines 283 in a distributionmanner.

A routing material 290 illustrated in FIG. 16C has a configuration inwhich a sub-power source system 291 and a main power source system 292formed of flat conductors are respectively covered with a braid 293 anda braid 294 on the peripheries thereof, and then overlap each other in aplate thickness direction, and a communication line 285 is stackedthereon.

Therefore, in the routing material 290, the braid 293 and the braid 294realize both grounding and shielding, and thus the noise resistanceperformance can be improved.

In a routing material 300 illustrated in FIG. 16D, an earth line 303 isinterposed between a sub-power source system 301 containing noise and acommunication line 305, and an earth line 304 is interposed between amain power source system 302 and the communication line 305, so that thecommunication line 305 is shielded.

The earth lines 304 and 303 are disposed on and under the communicationline 305, and thus the shield performance is improved.

Since the sub-power source system 301, the main power source system 302,and the earth lines 303 and 304 are formed of flat conductors and arestacked on each other, facing areas of the power source systems and theearth lines are large, and a gap therebetween is small, so that theshield performance is improved.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view for explaining arrangements of routingmaterials according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 17A to 17D are sectional views illustrating routing patterns ofrouting materials 310, 320, 330 and 340 each including a main powersource system 311 and a sub-power source system 312 formed of electricwires having stranded wires, an earth line 313 formed of an electricwire having a stranded wire, and a communication line 314 formed of aplastic optical fiber.

Optical communication resistant to noise is used for the communicationline 314 in each of the routing materials 310, 320, 330 and 340, andthus it is possible to improve the degree of freedom of a routingpattern of a backbone trunk line portion.

A routing material 350 illustrated in FIG. 17E has a configuration inwhich a main power source system 351 and a sub-power source system 352formed of aluminum round bar conductors, a pair of earth lines 313formed of electric wires having stranded wires, and a communication line314 formed of plastic optical fibers are bundled up.

Therefore, the communication line 314 disposed in a gap between thesub-power source system 352 formed of a round bar conductor and the pairof earth lines 313 is prevented from being damaged, and is easily routedin the vehicle body 1.

FIG. 18 is a sectional view for explaining arrangements of routingmaterials according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 18A, a routing material 360 has a configurationin which a main power source system 361 and a main earth line 362 for 12volts, a sub-power source system 365 and a sub-earth line 366 for 12volts, a main earth line 363 and a main power source system 364 for 48volts, and a sub-earth line 367 and a sub-power source system 368 for 48volts are alternately disposed.

Therefore, the routing material 360 has the improved shield performance,and thus a shield component and further a noise filter can be omitted.

As illustrated in FIG. 18B, a routing material 370 has a configurationin which a main power source system 371 and a sub-power source system373 which are formed of electric wires having stranded wires and arearranged side by side, earth lines 375 and 377 which are formed ofbraided wires covering outer circumferential surfaces of the main powersource system 371 and the sub-power source system 373, and a pair ofcommunication lines 376 and 378 disposed in upper and lower gaps betweenthe main power source system 371 and the sub-power source system 373arranged side by side are disposed in parallel to each other.

Therefore, in the routing material 370, the outer circumferentialsurfaces of the main power source system 371 and the sub-power sourcesystem 373 are respectively covered with the earth lines 375 and 377,and thus the influence of noise on the communication lines 376 and 378can be reduced.

Since both of shielding and grounding are realized, and thecommunication lines 376 and 378 are disposed in the upper and lower gapsbetween the two main power source system 371 and the sub-power sourcesystem 373, it is possible to save a space.

FIG. 19 shows sectional views for explaining a board connectionstructure of a round bar conductor according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 19A, for example, when a routing material 401having a round bar conductor 403 is electrically connected to a circuitboard 411 in a control box, first, an insulating coat 404 at aconnection location of the routing material 401 is peeled off so thatthe round bar conductor 403 is exposed.

A crimp terminal 405 made of a copper alloy includes a pair of crimppieces 407, and a pair of leads 409 inserted into through holes 413 ofthe circuit board 411.

The crimp pieces 407 of the crimp terminal 405 are crimped and fixed tothe exposed round bar conductor 403 of the routing material 401, and,then, as illustrated in FIG. 19B, the leads 409 of the crimp terminal405 are inserted into the through holes 413 of the circuit board 411 soas to be soldered. As a result, the round bar conductor 403 of therouting material 401 is electrically connected to a predeterminedcircuit of the circuit board 411.

Therefore, according to the board connection structure of the round barconductor 403 of the present embodiment, it is not necessary to processthe round bar conductor 403 for connection to the circuit board 411, anddedicated processing equipment such as a dedicated press device or apress mold is not necessary. Thus, processing cost can be reduced. Inother words, in the related art, a connection portion is required to beprocessed in a flat form and to be welded or bolt-fastened in order toconnect a round bar conductor to a terminal or an electric wire of thecounter party, and thus processing cost increases.

Since the round bar conductor 403 is exposed by peeling off theinsulating coat 404 at any position in the routing material 401, thecrimp terminal 405 can be attached at any position in the round barconductor 403, and thus it is possible to increase the degree of freedomof layout of the routing material 401.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view for explaining a structure of forming aterminal by using a stranded wire according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 20, when a routing material 420 formed of anelectric wire having a stranded wire 421 made of, for example, analuminum alloy is fixed to a stud bolt such as a battery terminal, thestranded wire 421 exposed at an end of the routing material 420 bypeeling off an insulating coat 404 is press-processed in an LA terminalform so that an LA terminal portion 425 is formed.

Therefore, it is not necessary to connect an LA terminal to the end ofthe routing material 420, and thus the number of components can bereduced.

FIG. 21 shows principal portion enlarged views for explaining terminalstructure examples of power source lines according to the presentembodiment.

As a connection terminal of a power source line in a backbone trunk lineportion according to the present embodiment, for example, a connectionterminal having a terminal size called a “1.5 terminal”, and aconnection terminal having a terminal size called a “4.8 terminal” areused.

As illustrated in FIG. 21A, a male tab terminal 430 called a “4.8terminal” has a terminal width W of 4.8 mm, and causes a female terminalof the counter party to be large-sized.

Therefore, a terminal connection portion is formed to have athree-dimensional U-shaped section as in a male terminal 431 illustratedin FIG. 21B, and thus it is possible to provide a structure of beingcapable of coping with a large current even in a small size byincreasing a surface area (a contact area with a counter terminal).

A terminal connection portion is formed in a three-dimensionalrectangular tubular shape as in a male terminal 433 illustrated in FIG.21C, and thus it is possible to provide a structure of being capable ofcoping with a large current even in a small size by increasing a surfacearea.

A terminal connection portion is formed in a three-dimensionalcylindrical shape as in a male terminal 435 illustrated in FIG. 21D, andthus it is possible to provide a structure of being capable of copingwith a large current even in a small size by increasing a surface area.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view for explaining an example of forming around bar conductor according to the present embodiment.

In a routing material 401 illustrated in FIG. 22, an aluminum round barconductor 403 is formed by using a secondary intermediate 445 obtainedwhen a core wire 447 of an aluminum electric wire is manufactured.

In other words, the core wire 447 in a well-known aluminum electric wireis formed, for example, by forming a columnar primary intermediate 443from an aluminum ingot 441, then, forming the long secondaryintermediate 445 by extending the primary intermediate 443, and furtherstretching the secondary intermediate 445 to have a small diameter.

Therefore, the routing material 401 can be formed just by forming theinsulating coat 404 on the circumference of the secondary intermediate445 which is used as the round bar conductor 403, and thus it ispossible to reduce the processing cost for the round bar conductor 403compared with a case where a round bar conductor is processed andmanufactured exclusively.

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram in which a coat sectional area of awire harness of the related art is compared with a coat sectional areaof a routing material according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated on a left part in FIG. 23, a wire harness W/H of therelated art including a power source line, an earth line, and acommunication line routed in a vehicle body is an electric wire bundleformed of a plurality of electric wires 452, and there is a tendency fora sectional diameter to increase.

In contrast, in a routing material 450 according to the presentembodiment illustrated on a right part in FIG. 23, a power source line451 and an earth line 453 in which insulating coats 404 are formed oncircumferences of aluminum round bar conductors 403, and a communicationline 456 formed of a plastic optical fiber 454 are integrally held withclamps 455 which are molded at a predetermined interval along alongitudinal direction.

Therefore, when a sectional area configuration of an insulating coat Rand a conductor M in the wire harness W/H is compared with an insulatingcoat R and a conductor M in the routing material 450, a sectional areaof the insulating coat R of the wire harness W/H is larger than asectional area of the insulating coat R of the routing material 450although sectional areas of the conductors M being the same as eachother. In other words, in the wire harness W/H of the related art, eachof the plurality of electric wires 452 has an insulating coat, but inthe routing material 450, electric wires are unified into a single powersource line 451, a single earth line 453, and a single communicationline 456, so that a sectional area of the insulating coat R can bereduced, and, as a result, it is possible to make the routing material450 considerably slim.

In the clamps 455 integrally molded to the routing material 450,engagement clips 459 protrude at both ends of a clamp body 457.Therefore, the engagement clips 459 are inserted into and engaged withpenetration holes of a vehicle body panel and the like, and thus therouting material 450 can be easily routed in and fixed to the vehiclebody.

FIG. 24 shows principal portion perspective view and sectional view forexplaining a terminal connection structure of the round bar conductoraccording to the present embodiment.

For example, when the routing material 401 having the round barconductor 403 is electrically connected to a circuit board in a controlbox, first, the insulating coat 404 at a connection location of therouting material 401 is partially peeled off so that the round barconductor 403 is exposed.

A connection terminal 461 made of a copper alloy includes a fixingportion 463 having a cylindrical inner surface in contact with an outersurface of the round bar conductor 403, and a tab terminal portion 465protruding outward of the fixing portion 463.

The fixing portion 463 of the connection terminal 461 is fixed to theexposed round bar conductor 403 of the routing material 401 throughwelding or by using ultrasonic waves. The tab terminal portion 465 isfitted to a counter terminal provided on the circuit board, so that theround bar conductor 403 of the routing material 401 is electricallyconnected to a predetermined circuit of the circuit board. Since thefixing portion 463 has the cylindrical inner surface in contact with theouter surface of the round bar conductor 403, the connection terminal461 secures a sufficient contact area with respect to the round barconductor 403, and can thus ensure connection reliability.

As illustrated in FIG. 24A, in a backbone trunk line portion 460configured by arranging a plurality of routing materials 401 side byside, the respective tab terminal portions 465 are fitted to counterterminals in a state of protruding outwardly in a diameter direction ofthe routing material 401 in parallel to each other. Therefore, the tabterminal portions 465 can be fitted to the counter terminals withrespect to the plurality of routing materials 401 arranged side by sidewithout changing an arrangement interval.

FIG. 25 shows principal portion perspective view and sectional view forexplaining a control box connection structure of a round bar conductoraccording to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIGS. 25A and 25B, in a case where each of a mainpower source system, a sub-power source system, and an earth lineforming a backbone trunk line portion is formed of an aluminum round barconductor 473, a terminal connection portion 475 having a small diameteris formed at a tip end of each round bar conductor 473, and a counterfemale terminal 477 made of an aluminum alloy to which the terminalconnection portion 475 is fitted is disposed inside each terminalaccommodation room 471.

If the tip end of the round bar conductor 473 is inserted into theterminal accommodation room 471 of a control box 470 as a male terminal,the backbone trunk line portion is in a state of being electricallyconnected to the control box 470.

Therefore, it is not necessary to separately attach a connectionterminal to the tip end of each round bar conductor 473 which iselectrically connected to the control box 470, and thus the number ofcomponents can be reduced.

FIG. 26 shows principal portion perspective views for explainingmodification examples of the round bar conductor according to thepresent embodiment.

A routing material 480 illustrated in FIG. 26A is formed in which acircular section portion 481 formed of an aluminum round bar conductor,a tabular portion 483 formed of a thick aluminum flat conductor, and athin tabular portion 485 formed of a thin aluminum flat conductor areconnected to each other such that a shape thereof changes seamlesslyalong the longitudinal direction.

The tabular portion 483 is easily bent in a plate thickness direction,and the thin tabular portion 485 is more easily bent. The circularsection portion 481 is more difficult to be bent than the tabularportion 483 or the thin tabular portion 485, but is freely bent in alldirections.

Therefore, a backbone trunk line portion formed of the routing material480 is easily routed in a three-dimensional manner according to arouting path of a vehicle body.

A routing material 490 illustrated in FIG. 26B is formed in which atabular portion 493 formed of a thick aluminum flat conductor and acircular section portion 495 formed of an aluminum round bar conductorare connected to each other such that a shape thereof changes seamlesslyalong the longitudinal direction.

The tabular portion 493 has a height smaller than that of the circularsection portion 495 and is used at a portion which is required to berouted with a reduced height.

Therefore, a backbone trunk line portion formed by stacking a pluralityof routing materials 490 is easily routed in a three-dimensional manneraccording to a routing path of a vehicle body since the tabular portion493 is used at a portion which is required to be routed with a reducedheight, and the circular section portion 495 is used at a portion whichfacilitates path routing in a three-dimensional.

The routing materials 480 and 490 can be formed by using an aluminumround bar or rectangular bar without using an aluminum strand, and thusit is possible to reduce manufacturing cost.

FIG. 27 is a sectional view for explaining a modification example of arouting material according to the present embodiment.

A routing material 500 illustrated in FIG. 27 is a coaxial cableincluding a central conductor 501, an insulating layer 505 which iscoaxially disposed on the outside of the central conductor 501, and anearth line 503 formed of a braided wire covering an outercircumferential surface of the insulating layer 505.

A current flows through the central conductor 501 as a power sourceline, and a signal flows therethrough according to a power linecommunication (PLC) technique.

Therefore, in the routing material 500, two constituent elements such asthe central conductor 501 and the earth line 503 can cope with threefunctions such as a power source line, an earth line, and a signal line,and are formed as a thick coaxial cable by using the coaxial structure,so that a large current can be made to flow therethrough.

FIG. 28 is a sectional view for explaining a modification example of arouting material according to the present embodiment.

A routing material 510 illustrated in FIG. 28 includes a power sourceline 515 formed of a plurality of stranded litz wires (enamel wires)511, and an earth line 513 disposed as a braided wire surrounding theoutside of the power source line 515.

Therefore, the routing material 510 is a compact electric wire resistantto noise.

FIG. 29 shows sectional views for explaining a modification example of arouting material according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 29, a routing material 520 has a configuration inwhich a power source line 521 formed of a plurality of core wires 524and an earth line 522 formed of a plurality of core wires 524 aredisposed in parallel with a predetermined interval, and are covered withan insulating coat 523 having an elliptical section in this state.

Both ends of the power source line 521 and the earth line 522 arerespectively connected to terminals 525, and the terminals 525 areaccommodated in a connector housing 527.

Therefore, in the routing material 520, the power source line 521 andthe earth line 522 can be covered with the single insulating coat 523,and thus a routing space can be reduced compared with a wire harness ofthe related art in which each of a plurality of core wires is coveredwith an insulating coat, so that manufacturing cost can be reduced.

FIG. 30 shows sectional views for explaining modification examples ofrouting materials according to the present embodiment.

A routing material 530 illustrated in FIG. 30A has a configuration inwhich a power source line 531 formed of a plurality of litz wires(enamel wires) 533 and an earth line 532 formed of a plurality of litzwires (enamel wires) 533 are covered with an insulating coat 534 havingan elliptical section in a state of being close to each other.

In other words, the power source line 531 and the earth line 532 do nothave coat layers, but are formed of the litz wires 533, and thus are notshort-circuited to each other even if the lines are close to each other.The power source line 531 and the earth line 532 not having coat layersare covered with the insulating coat 534 in a state of being close toeach other, and thus the routing material 530 can be made compact.

A routing material 540 illustrated in FIG. 30B has a configuration inwhich a power source line 531 formed of a plurality of litz wires 533and an earth line 532 formed of a plurality of litz wires 533 arecovered with an insulating coat 543 having a circular section in a stateof being close to each other.

A routing material 550 illustrated in FIG. 30C has a configuration inwhich a power source line 551 having a semicircular section and formedof a plurality of litz wires 533 and an earth line 553 having asemicircular section and formed of a plurality of litz wires 533 arecovered with an insulating coat 554 having a circular section in a stateof being combined each other to have a circular section.

A routing material 560 illustrated in FIG. 30D has a configuration inwhich a sub-power source line 561 formed of a plurality of litz wires533, a main power source line 562 formed of a plurality of litz wires533, and an earth line 563 formed of a plurality of litz wires 533 arecovered with an insulating coat 564 having an elliptical section in astate of being close to each other.

FIG. 31 shows sectional views for explaining a modification example of arouting material according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 31, a routing material 570 has a configuration inwhich a power source line 571 formed of a plurality of litz wires 533and an earth line 573 formed of a plurality of litz wires 533 arecovered with an insulating coat 574 having an elliptical section in astate of being twisted in order to increase a noise canceling effect.

Both ends of the power source line 571 and the earth line 573 arerespectively connected to terminals 578, and the terminals 578 areaccommodated in a connector housing 579.

Therefore, in the routing material 570, the twisted power source line571 and earth line 573 can be covered with the single insulating coat574, and thus a routing space can be reduced compared with a twistedcable of the related art in which each of a plurality of core wires iscovered with an insulating coat. In the routing material 570, the litzwires 533 can be brought into close contact with each other, and thusnoise can be efficiently reduced. In the routing material 570, theinsulating coat 574 can be formed while twisting the power source line571 and the earth line 573, and can thus be manufactured in a singleelectric wire manufacturing process, and thus it is possible to reduceprocessing cost.

FIG. 32 is a plan view for explaining a modification example of arouting material according to the present embodiment.

A routing material 580 illustrated in FIG. 32 has a configuration inwhich a power source line 581 formed of a plurality of litz wires 584and an earth line 583 formed of a plurality of litz wires 584 arebraided to each other, such as braided wires. Both ends of the powersource line 581 and the earth line 583 are respectively connected toterminals 585 through soldering or by using ultrasonic waves. Thebraided power source line 581 and earth line 583 can maintainindependent current paths since the litz wires 584 are not conducted toeach other.

Therefore, in the routing material 580, the power source line 581 andthe earth line 583 are braided to each other so that the litz wires 584are brought into close contact with each other, and thus it is possibleto efficiently reduce noise.

FIG. 33 shows partial perspective views and a cross-sectional view forexplaining routing form examples of routing materials according to thepresent embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 33A, a routing material 590 in which a powersource line 591, an earth line 593, and a communication line 595 arecovered with an insulating coat 596 having a semicircular sectionalshape is integrally routed to overlap a reinforcement 597 having asemicircular sectional shape. Therefore, the routing material 590 can beminiaturized through improvement of space efficiency.

As illustrated in FIG. 33B, a routing material 600 is routed in areinforcement 601 having a rectangular sectional shape in a state inwhich a sub-power source system 25, a main power source system 23, anearth line 27, and a communication line 29 are stacked. Therefore, therouting material 600 can be miniaturized through improvement of spaceefficiency.

As illustrated in FIG. 33C, a routing material 610 has a configurationin which an earth line 617 is stacked on a communication line 619, and apower source line 611 formed of a main power source system 613 and asub-power source system 615 stacked thereon is stacked on the earth line617. A sheath 612 covers the periphery so as to gather the systems.

Therefore, the routing material 610 is shielded by the earth line 617,and sneaking of noise of the power source line 611 can be prevented.

FIG. 34 is a partial sectional perspective view for explaining amodification example of a vehicular circuit body according to thepresent embodiment.

In a backbone trunk line portion 620 illustrated in FIG. 34, trunk linesamong a plurality of control boxes 621, 623 and 625 are formed of arouting material 627 having round bar conductors and a routing material629 having flat conductors.

According to the backbone trunk line portion 620 of the presentembodiment, the routing materials 627 and 629 having the conductorssuitable for a routing path of a vehicle can be used for the respectivetrunk lines among the plurality of control boxes 621, 623 and 625, andthus the routing property is further improved.

FIG. 35 is a principal portion perspective view for explaining a jointform example of a routing material according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 35, a routing material 630 has a configuration inwhich two thin tabular routing materials 631 and 632 are connected toeach other by butting facing surfaces thereof, so as to be integrated.Specifically, a protrusion 634 is formed on a right end surface of therouting material 631, and a concave 636 having a shape complementary tothat of the protrusion 634 is formed on a left end surface of therouting material 632.

Each electrode of a power source line 633, an earth line 635, and asignal line 637 is disposed to be exposed to the right end surface ofthe routing material 631. Although not illustrated, similarly,electrodes which can be respectively brought into contact with the powersource line 633, the earth line 635, and the signal line 637 are alsodisposed on the left end surface of the routing material 632.

As mentioned above, the types of the routing materials 631 and 632 inwhich shapes of connection locations, electrode specifications, and thelike are standardized in advance, are selected, and the selected membersare combined with each other, so that the routing material 630corresponding to various specifications can be configured. In this case,it is possible to reduce the number of types of standardized routingmaterials 630 and also to reduce the number of components.

FIG. 36 is a principal portion perspective view for explaining a jointform example of a routing material according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 36, a routing material 640 has a configuration inwhich two thin tabular routing materials 642 and 646 are connected toeach other by butting facing surfaces thereof, so as to be integrated.Specifically, a plurality of concaves 636 are formed with apredetermined interval in a longitudinal direction on a right sidesurface of the routing material 642, and a plurality of protrusions 648having a shape complementary to that of the concaves 636 are formed witha predetermined interval in the longitudinal direction on a left sidesurface of the routing material 646.

In the routing material 642, a main power source system 641 for 12volts, a sub-power source system 643 for 12 volts, an earth line 645 for12 volts, and a signal line 647 are arranged side by side, each of whichis formed of an electric wire having a stranded wire.

In the routing material 646, a power source system 651 for 48 volts andan earth line 649 for 48 volts are arranged side by side, each of whichis formed of an electric wire having a stranded wire.

As mentioned above, according to the present embodiment, the routingmaterials 642 and 646 having a voltage difference are combined with eachother so as to be used as the single routing material 640. A routingmaterial having a voltage difference may be easily added in the future.The routing materials 642 and 646 can be fixed to each other throughsimple work of fitting the protrusions 648 to the concaves 636.

FIG. 37 shows principal portion exploded perspective views forexplaining modification examples of control boxes according to thepresent embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 37A, a control box 650 disposed along a backbonetrunk line portion 661 includes a control box main body 658 connected tothe backbone trunk line portion 661, and cartridges 653 and 655 whichare attachable to and detachable from tab terminals 656 of the controlbox main body 658.

The cartridge 653 has four connector ports 652 forming a branch lineconnection portion connected to module connectors of branch lines (notillustrated). The cartridge 655 has six connector ports 652 forming abranch line connection portion connected to module connectors of branchlines (not illustrated).

Therefore, the control box 650 has a variation in the number of modulesto be connected by selecting the cartridges 653 and 655 as appropriateand mounting the cartridges in the common control box main body 658, andthe control box in a vehicle equipment grade can be easily set in thebackbone trunk line portion 661.

As illustrated in FIG. 37B, a control box 660 disposed along thebackbone trunk line portion 661 includes a control box main body 658connected to the backbone trunk line portion 661, and cartridges 657 and659 which are attachable to and detachable from the control box mainbody 658.

The cartridge 657 has a configuration corresponding to a 48-volt powersource having connector ports 654 or the like corresponding to a “4.8terminal”. The cartridge 659 has a configuration corresponding to a12-volt power source having connector ports 652 or the likecorresponding to a “1.5 terminal”.

Therefore, the control box 660 can cope with a 12-volt power source, a48-volt power source, and a variation in both of the power sources byselecting the cartridges 657 and 659 and mounting the cartridges in thecommon control box main body 658. Thus, the backbone trunk line portion661 with the control box 660 can cope with apparatuses for differentvoltages by stepping up or down a single voltage.

FIG. 38 shows partial sectional perspective views for explainingmodification examples of routing materials according to the presentembodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 38A, a routing material 670 includes an earthline 671 formed of a flat conductor, and a main power source system 673and a sub-power source system 675 formed of round bar conductorsdisposed on both sides of the earth line 671. The earth line 671 hasdepressed surfaces 672 having a semicircular shape on surfaces facingthe main power source system 673 and the sub-power source system 675 inorder to increase a facing area with the main power source system 673and the sub-power source system 675.

Therefore, the noise resistance performance of the routing material 670is improved due to an increase of the facing area with the main powersource system 673 and the sub-power source system 675.

The earth line 671 faces the main power source system 673 and thesub-power source system 675 formed of round bar conductors and thus hasthe depressed surfaces 672 having a semicircular shape, but has flatsurfaces in a case where the main power source system 673 and thesub-power source system 675 are formed of flat conductors. In otherwords, facing surfaces of the earth line 671 have shapes complementaryto shapes of the main power source system 673 and the sub-power sourcesystem 675.

As illustrated in FIG. 38B, a routing material 674 has a configurationin which a main power source system 677 and a sub-power source system678 formed of electric wires having stranded wires and arranged side byside so as to be close to each other, a pair of earth lines 676 and 676formed of flat conductors and disposed on and under the main powersource system 677 and the sub-power source system 678 in parallel to anarrangement direction of the main power source system 677 and thesub-power source system 678, and a pair of communication lines 679 and679 formed of electric wires having stranded wires and disposed in anupper or lower gap between the flat earth lines 676 and the adjacentmain power source system 677 or the sub-power source system 678, aredisposed in parallel to each other.

Therefore, the upper or lower side of the main power source system 677or the sub-power source system 678 is covered with the pair of earthlines 676 formed of flat conductors, and thus the routing material 674can prevent the communication lines 679 and 679 from being influenced bynoise.

Since the communication lines 679 and 679 are disposed in the upper orlower gap between the flat earth lines 676 and the adjacent main powersource system 677 or the sub-power source system 678, a space can besaved.

FIG. 39 shows perspective views for explaining routing form examples ofa routing material according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 39A, a thin tabular routing material 680 in whicha main power source system 681, an earth line 683, and a sub-powersource system 685 arranged side by side are covered with an insulatingcoat 687 can be bent in a thickness direction. However, when the routingmaterial is routed in a vehicle body, the routing material 680 tends toreturn to a linear form due to elastic repulsion, and is thus difficultto be routed at a corner or the like.

Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 39B, splint members 682 and 684 havingshapes bent with predetermined angles are disposed on front and rearsurfaces of the routing material 680, and thus the routing material 680can be maintained in a desired shape along a routing path thereof.Consequently, the routing workability of the routing material 680 isimproved.

FIG. 40 is a schematic plan view for explaining a modification exampleof a vehicular circuit body according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 40, a backbone trunk line portion 700 including apower source line 711 and an earth line 713 is connected to a battery706 and an alternator 707 which are power sources. A plurality ofcontrol boxes 701, 703 and 705 are disposed in the backbone trunk lineportion 700 in a distribution manner. Accessories 715 and a motor 717are connected to the control boxes 701, 703 and 705.

A plurality of sub-batteries 720 are connected to the power source line711 and the earth line 713 inside and in the vicinity of each of thecontrol boxes 701, 703 and 705.

Therefore, in the backbone trunk line portion 700, the sub-batteries 720are set at locations close to a noise source so that noise is easilyabsorbed, and thus noise sneaking into an ECU can be prevented.

Since the plurality of control boxes 701, 703 and 705 are disposed in adistribution manner, there is no problem even if noise emitting devicesor noise influenced devices are located at any positions in the backbonetrunk line portion 700, and thus the noise resistance performance isimproved.

FIG. 41 shows schematic plan views for explaining modification examplesof vehicular circuit bodies according to the present embodiment.

As in backbone trunk line portions 730, 740, 750 and 760 illustrated inFIGS. 41A to 41D, a battery 732 can be connected to any position in thebackbone trunk line portion according to conditions or the like of avehicle. In this case, in order to remove the influence of a voltagefluctuation or noise, a low impedance routing material is preferablyused as a routing material (a power source line 735 and an earth line737) of the backbone trunk line portions 730, 740, 750 and 760 routedbetween a control box 731 and a control box 733.

As in a backbone trunk line portion 770 illustrated in FIG. 41E, thebattery 732 may be provided in a control box 771.

FIG. 42 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining amodification example of a vehicular circuit body according to thepresent embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 42, a backbone trunk line portion 780 having apower source line 782 and an earth line 784 is connected to a battery790 and an alternator 791 which are power sources. A plurality ofcontrol boxes 781, 783 and 785 are disposed in the backbone trunk lineportion 780 in a distribution manner. Accessories 787, 788 and 789 arerespectively connected to the control boxes 781, 783 and 785. Asub-battery may be connected to the backbone trunk line portion 780 onthe rearmost side.

The battery 790 and the alternator 791 are grounded to a vehicle body792. The accessories 788 and 789 of a large current system are alsogrounded to the vehicle body 792. The accessory 788 is grounded to thevehicle body 792 via an earth line 793, and the accessory 789 isgrounded to the vehicle body 792 via brackets 794 fixing a case to thevehicle body 792.

In other words, the accessories 788 and 789 of a large current systemare grounded to the vehicle body so as to reduce the influence of noise,and thus it is possible to reduce a ground voltage fluctuation or noiseof the alternator 791.

FIG. 43 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining amodification example of a vehicular circuit body according to thepresent embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 43, a backbone trunk line portion 800 includes arouting material 810 in which a power source line 811 and an earth line813 formed of, for example, aluminum round bar conductors or strandedwires are twisted. The routing material 810 is connected to a battery790 and an alternator 791 which are power sources. A plurality ofcontrol boxes 801, 803 and 805 are disposed in the backbone trunk lineportion 800 in a distribution manner.

Since the power source line 811 and the earth line 813 are twisted, anoise canceling effect can be increased, and thus resistance performanceof external noise can be improved.

FIG. 44 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining amodification example of a vehicular circuit body according to thepresent embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 44, a backbone trunk line portion 820 having apower source line 828 and an earth line 829 is connected to a battery790 and an alternator 791 which are power sources. A plurality ofcontrol boxes 821, 823, 825 and 827 are disposed in the backbone trunkline portion 820 in a distribution manner. Accessories 833 areseparately connected to the control boxes 821, 823 and 825.

Annular ferrites 830 are connected to the backbone trunk line portion820 between the control boxes 821, 823, 825 and 827.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent noise on downstream sides of therespective control boxes 821, 823, 825 and 827 from spreading throughthe backbone trunk line portion 820.

FIG. 45 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a layout and aconnection state of each portion in a state in which a vehicular circuitbody according to the modification example of the present embodiment isrouted on the vehicle body.

A vehicular circuit body 900 illustrated in FIG. 45 includes, asfundamental constituent elements, a trunk line (backbone trunk lineportion 915) routed in a vehicle body 901 and having a power source line931, an earth line 933, and a communication line 935; branch lines(instrument panel branch line sub-harnesses 965, front door branch linesub-harnesses 963, rear door branch line sub-harnesses 977, and luggagebranch line sub-harnesses 979) connected to electric components at therespective vehicle body locations; and a plurality of control boxes (asupply side control box 951, a branch control box 953, an intermediatecontrol box 961, and control boxes 955, 957, 959 and 966) disposed alongthe trunk line in a distribution manner and having a control unit fordistributing power from the power source line 931 supplied to the trunkline and signals from the communication line 935 to the branch linesconnected to the trunk line.

The backbone trunk line portion 915 of the vehicular circuit body 900 isbroadly divided into an instrument panel backbone trunk line portion911, a floor backbone trunk line portion 913, and an engine compartmentbackbone trunk line portion 919.

The instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 911 is linearlydisposed in a leftward-and-rightward direction at a location along asurface of a dash panel 950 so as to be substantially in parallel to areinforcement (not illustrated) at a position above the reinforcement.The instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 911 may be fixed to thereinforcement.

The floor backbone trunk line portion 913 is disposed to extend in afront-and-rear direction of the vehicle body 901 substantially at thecenter of the vehicle body 901 in the leftward-and-rightward directionalong a vehicle interior floor, and a tip end of a rising portion 917linearly extending in an upward-and-downward direction at the locationalong the surface of the dash panel 950 is connected to a joint box 920installed in a penetration hole of the dash panel 950. A tip end of arising portion 918 which is branch-connected to the floor backbone trunkline portion 913 is connected to an intermediate portion of theinstrument panel backbone trunk line portion 911.

The engine compartment backbone trunk line portion 919 is connected tothe floor backbone trunk line portion 913 via the joint box 920installed in the penetration hole of the dash panel 950.

The engine compartment backbone trunk line portion 919 routed in anengine room 41 of the vehicle is connected to a main battery 5 which isa main power source via a branch line sub-harness 975 connected to thesupply side control box 951. The supply side control box 951 and thecontrol box 959 are connected to branch line sub-harnesses 971 and 973.

Here, the dash panel 950 is disposed at a boundary between the engineroom 41 and the vehicle interior 43, and a location where an electricalconnection member penetrates through the dash panel 950 is required tobe perfectly sealed. In other words, the dash panel 950 is required tohave functions of insulating vibration from the engine room 41, reducingvibration or noise from a suspension, and blocking heat, noise, andsmell in order to maintain the vehicle interior 43 to be comfortable.Sufficient consideration is also required for the penetration locationof the electrical connection member in order to prevent the functionsfrom being impaired.

As illustrated in FIG. 46, the joint box 920 includes relay terminals923, 925 and 927 penetrating through a housing 921, and a packing 922sealing a gap with dash panel 950.

A power source line 931, an earth line 933, and a communication line 935at the rising portion 917 of the floor backbone trunk line portion 913and a power source line 931, an earth line 933, and a communication line935 at the engine compartment backbone trunk line portion 919 areconnected to each other through bolt-fastening using bolts 941 at bothends of the relay terminals 923, 925 and 927 and connector couplingusing connectors 943.

Therefore, the floor backbone trunk line portion 913 and the enginecompartment backbone trunk line portion 919 are connected to each otherin a fluid-tight manner via the joint box 920 installed in thepenetration hole of the dash panel 950.

Second Embodiment

FIG. 47 is a schematic plan view illustrating a layout and a connectionstate of each portion in a state in which a vehicular circuit bodyaccording to a second embodiment of the present invention is routed on avehicle body.

A vehicular circuit body 1000 illustrated in FIG. 47 includes, asfundamental constituent elements, a backbone trunk line portion 1015which is a trunk line routed in a vehicle body 1001 of a so-calledplugin hybrid car; branch lines (front door branch line sub-harnesses1063, rear door branch line sub-harnesses 1065, and the like) connectedto electric components at respective vehicle body locations; a pluralityof control boxes (a supply side control box 1051, a branch control box1053, an intermediate control box 1057, and control boxes 1055 and 1059)disposed along the trunk line in a distribution manner and having acontrol unit which distributes power from a power source line suppliedto the trunk line and signals from a communication line to the branchlines connected to the trunk line, and a high-voltage cable 1300disposed on a vehicle body lower portion in order to connect ahigh-voltage battery pack 1110 to a power control unit 1220.

The high-voltage battery pack 1110 transmits high-voltage power from ahigh-voltage battery 1130 to the high-voltage cable 1300 via ahigh-voltage J/B 1140. The power transmitted to the power control unit1220 from the high-voltage cable 1300 is sent to a motor generator andan engine 1210 via a DC/DC converter 1230.

A floor backbone trunk line portion 1013 and an instrument panelbackbone trunk line portion 1011 of the backbone trunk line portion 1015are connected to the high-voltage J/B 1140 via a DC/DC converter 1120.

A power source cable connected to the supply side control box 1051 isconnected to a main battery 1005 via fusible links 1020. The mainbattery 1005 is also connected to the DC/DC converter 1230 of the powercontrol unit 1220 via a fusible link 1022.

In the vehicular circuit body 1000, the DC/DC converter 1230 and theDC/DC converter 1120 are respectively disposed at the front part and therear part of the vehicle, and thus power source redundancy can berealized.

Therefore, power from the high-voltage battery pack 1110 can be steppeddown in the DC/DC converter 1120 so as to be supplied to the backbonetrunk line portion 1015 as a sub-power source.

In other words, the fusible links 1020 and 1022 are disposed at an endof the backbone trunk line portion 1015, and disconnect circuits whenshort-circuiting occurs at the front part or the rear part, and thus thesupply of power can be continuously performed (backed up) from one ofthe DC/DC converter 1230 and the DC/DC converter 1120.

Therefore, according to the above-described vehicular circuit bodies 10,900 and 1000, a new electric wire can be easily added, andminiaturization and a reduction in weight can be realized, bysimplifying a structure for electrical connection between variouselectric components and power sources on a vehicle, and between theelectric components, especially, a configuration of a trunk lineportion.

Third Embodiment <Configuration Example of Principal Portions>

FIG. 48 illustrates a configuration example of principal portions of anon-vehicle device including a vehicular circuit body in a thirdembodiment of the present invention.

A vehicular circuit body illustrated in FIG. 48 is used as atransmission line required to supply power from a main power source suchas an on-vehicle battery to accessories at respective vehicle bodylocations, that is, various electric components or to exchange signalsbetween the electric components. In other words, a function of thevehicular circuit body of the third embodiment is the same as a generalwire harness, but a structure thereof is greatly different from that ofthe general wire harness.

The on-vehicle device shown in FIG. 48 illustrates a configuration of avehicle interior side in the vicinity of a dash panel 2016 whichpartitions a vehicle body into an engine room 2011 and a vehicleinterior (occupant compartment) 2013. As illustrated in FIG. 48, areinforcement (not shown) which is a reinforcement member is provided onan instrument panel portion slightly located on a rear side of the dashpanel 2016 so as to extend in the leftward-and-rightward direction ofthe vehicle body. Principal constituent elements of the vehicularcircuit body are disposed in the vicinity of the reinforcement. Thevehicular circuit body at a location extending in theleftward-and-rightward direction of the vehicle body may be fixed to thereinforcement, may be fixed to the dash panel 2016, or may be fixed to adedicated fixing tool.

The vehicular circuit body illustrated in FIG. 48 includes a pluralityof backbone trunk line portions 2021, 2022 and 2023, and a plurality ofbackbone control boxes 2031, 2032 and 2033. Each of the backbone trunkline portions 2021, 2022 and 2023 includes lines such as a power sourceline, an earth line, and a communication line. The power source line andthe earth line of each backbone trunk line portion have a configurationin which a strip-shaped metal material (for example, copper or aluminum)having a flat sectional shape is employed, and such metal materials arestacked in a thickness direction in a state of being electricallyinsulated from each other. Consequently, a large current is allowed topass therethrough, and bending processing in the thickness direction isrelatively facilitated.

The backbone trunk line portions 2021 and 2022 are linearly disposed inthe leftward-and-rightward direction so as to be substantially parallelto the reinforcement over the reinforcement at a location along asurface of the dash panel 2016. The backbone trunk line portion 2023 isdisposed substantially at the center of the vehicle body in theleftward-and-rightward direction, and linearly extends in theupward-and-downward direction at the location along the surface of thedash panel 2016. The backbone trunk line portion 2023 is bent in thethickness direction by about 90 degrees in the vicinity of a boundarybetween the dash panel 2016 and a vehicle interior floor, and isdisposed to extend in the front-and-rear direction of the vehicle bodyalong the vehicle interior floor.

The backbone control box 2032 is disposed substantially at the center ofthe vehicle body in the leftward-and-rightward direction, the backbonecontrol box 2031 is disposed in the vicinity of a left end in theleftward-and-rightward direction, and the backbone control box 2033 isdisposed in the vicinity of a right end in the leftward-and-rightwarddirection.

A left end of the backbone trunk line portion 2021 is connected to aright end of the backbone control box 2031, and a right end of thebackbone trunk line portion 2021 is connected to a left end of thebackbone control box 2032. A left end of the backbone trunk line portion2022 is connected to a right end of the backbone control box 2032, and aright end of the backbone trunk line portion 2022 is connected to a leftend of the backbone control box 2033. A tip end of the backbone trunkline portion 2023 is connected to a lower end of the backbone controlbox 2032.

In other words, the backbone trunk line portions 2021 to 2023 and thebackbone control boxes 2031 to 2033 are formed in a shape similar to a Tshape as illustrated in FIG. 48. Internal circuits of the backbone trunkline portions 2021 to 2023 are in a state of being capable of beingelectrically connected to each other via the backbone control box 2032.

<Details of Backbone Control Boxes>

The backbone control box 2031 disposed on the left of the vehicle bodyis provided with a main power source connection portion 2031 a, a trunkline connection portion 2031 b, and a branch line connection portion2031 c. As illustrated in FIG. 48, the main power source connectionportion 2031 a of the backbone control box 2031 is connected to a mainpower source cable 2041, the trunk line connection portion 2031 b isconnected to the left end of the backbone trunk line portion 2021, andthe branch line connection portion 2031 c is connected to a plurality ofbranch line sub-harnesses 2042.

Although not illustrated in FIG. 48, power source lines of two systems,an earth line, and a communication line are provided inside the backbonetrunk line portion 2021. The main power source connection portion 2031 ais provided with two connection terminals which are connected to a powersource line and an earth line of the main power source cable 2041.

For example, of the power source lines of two systems included in thebackbone trunk line portion 2021, one power source line is used as apath for supplying power from the main power source. The other powersource line is used as a path for supplying source power for backup, forexample, when abnormality occurs.

A circuit board for connecting power source systems, earth systems, andcommunication systems of respective circuits to each other among themain power source cable 2041, the backbone trunk line portion 2021, andthe branch line sub-harnesses 2042 is provided inside the backbonecontrol box 2031.

Regarding the main power source cable 2041, terminals connected to tipends of the power source line and the earth line are connected to theterminals of the main power source connection portion 2031 a, and arefixed by using bolts and nuts, and thus the circuits can be connected toeach other.

Regarding the branch line sub-harnesses 2042, connectors provided atrespective tip ends thereof are attachable to and detachable from thebranch line connection portion 2031 c, and thus the circuits can beconnected to each other as necessary. Each of the branch linesub-harnesses 2042 is configured to include all of a power source line,an earth line, and a communication line, or a part thereof. In thebackbone control box 2031 illustrated in FIG. 48, the branch lineconnection portion 2031 c is provided with six connectors, and can thusconnect to six branch line sub-harnesses 2042 at most.

As illustrated in FIG. 48, the backbone trunk line portions 2021 to 2023and the backbone control boxes 2031 to 2033 are combined, and variousbranch line sub-harnesses 2042 to 2044 are connected to the backbonecontrol boxes 2031 to 2033, and thus it is possible to route varioustransmission lines with a simple structure similar to a backbone.

For example, options or various electric components additionally mountedon a vehicle can be handled just by adding or changing the branch linesub-harnesses 2042 to 2044 connected to any one of the backbone controlboxes 2031 to 2033, and thus it is not necessary to change the structureof the trunk line of the vehicular circuit body. In the presentembodiment, a case is assumed in which the branch line sub-harnesses2042 to 2044 are connected to the backbone control boxes 2031 to 2033,but other branch line sub-harnesses (not illustrated) may be connectedto locations of proper relay points on the backbone trunk line portions2021 to 2023, for example.

In an actual on-vehicle device, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 48,an electronic control unit (ECU) 2051 provided in a vehicle may beconnected to the backbone control box 2031 or other electric componentsvia the branch line sub-harnesses 2042. The backbone control box 2032may be connected to electronic control units 2051, 2052 and 2053 orother electric components via the branch line sub-harnesses 2043. Thebackbone control box 2033 may be connected to various electriccomponents via the branch line sub-harnesses 2044. The respectiveelectronic control units 2051, 2052 and 2053 can control variouselectric components on the vehicle via communication lines of the branchline sub-harnesses 2042, 2043 and 2044, the backbone control boxes 2031to 2033, and the like.

On the other hand, the vehicular circuit body illustrated in FIG. 48 isrequired to perform electrical connection not only between electriccomponents in the vehicle interior 2013 but also between the main powersource and electric components in the engine room 2011. The dash panel2016 is disposed at a boundary between the engine room 2011 and avehicle interior 2013, and a location where an electrical connectionmember penetrates through the dash panel 2016 is required to beperfectly sealed. In other words, the dash panel is required to havefunctions of insulating vibration from the engine room, reducingvibration or noise from a suspension, and blocking heat, noise, andsmell in order to maintain the vehicle interior to be comfortable.Sufficient consideration is also required for the penetration locationof the electrical connection member in order to prevent the functionsfrom being impaired.

However, for example, if a component which has a large sectional areaand is hardly bent in directions other than a specific direction, suchas the backbone trunk line portions 2021 to 2023, is configured topenetrate through the dash panel 2016, it is considerably hard to sealthe penetration location, and thus it is also difficult to performrouting work of a vehicular circuit body.

In the vehicular circuit body illustrated in FIG. 48, the backbone trunkline portions 2021 to 2023 and the backbone control boxes 2031 to 2033which are principal constituent elements are all disposed in a space onthe vehicle interior 2013 side, and thus the problem of the penetrationlocation in the dash panel 2016 can be easily solved.

Actually, as illustrated in FIG. 48, the main power source cable 2041connected to the left end of the backbone control box 2031 is routed topass through a penetration hole 2016 a of the dash panel 2016, and acircuit of the main power source in the engine room 2011 is connected toa power source circuit of the backbone control box 2031 via the mainpower source cable 2041. Consequently, power from the main power sourcecan be supplied to the backbone control box 2031. Since an easilybendable material can be used for the main power source cable 2041, asectional shape thereof can be made a circular shape, and a sectionalarea thereof can be made small, sealing of the penetration hole 2016 acan be facilitated, and thus it is also possible to prevent workabilityfrom degrading when routing work is performed.

In a case where various electric components in the engine room 2011 areconnected to the vehicular circuit body of the vehicle interior 2013,for example, a part of the branch line sub-harnesses 2042 connected tothe backbone control box 2031 is provided to pass through the dash panel2016, or a part of the branch line sub-harnesses 2044 connected to thebackbone control box 2033 is provided to pass through the dash panel2016, and thus a desired electrical connection path can be realized. Inthis case, since the branch line sub-harnesses 2042 and 2044 have smallsectional areas and are easily bent, a location where the branch linesub-harnesses pass through the dash panel 2016 can be easily sealed.

Since the main power source is located in the engine room 2011 side, apower source line or an earth line may be omitted in a branch linesub-harness provided at a penetration location of the dash panel 2016,and only a communication line may be provided therein. Such a specialbranch line sub-harness may be configured as a communication trunk lineseparately from the branch line sub-harnesses 2042 to 2044 branched fromthe backbone trunk line.

The on-vehicle device of the present embodiment has the above-describedfundamental configuration as illustrated in FIG. 48, but various changesor additions can be made in a configuration or an operation as will bedescribed below for further improvement.

<Characteristic Technique Regarding Supply of Power> <ConfigurationExample of System>

A system illustrated in FIG. 49 includes a backbone trunk line BB_LM inorder to secure principal paths for the supply of power andcommunication. A plurality of control boxes CB(1) and CB(2) areconnected in the middle of the backbone trunk line BB_LM. A main batteryMB and an alternator ALT which are main power sources of a vehicle sideare connected to an upstream side of the backbone trunk line BB_LM.

Each of the control boxes CB(1) and CB(2) is provided with connectionportions Cnx for connection to various accessories AE. The respectiveaccessories AE correspond to electric components such as various loadsor an electronic control unit (ECU) mounted on the vehicle.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 49, the accessory AE(1) isconnected to a single connector in the connection portions Cnx of thecontrol box CB(1) via a branch line sub-harness LS(1). The accessoryAE(2) is connected to a single connector in the connection portions Cnxof the control box CB(1) via a branch line sub-harness LS(2). Similarly,each of the accessories AE(3) and AE(4) is connected to a singleconnector in the connection portions Cnx of the control box CB(2) viacorresponding branch line sub-harnesses LS(3) and LS(4).

The connection portions Cnx of each control box CB is provided with aplurality of connectors (not illustrated in FIG. 49), and the pluralityof connectors have the same shape, size and configuration. Therefore, ina case where each branch line sub-harness LS is connected to theconnector of the connection portion Cnx, any one of the plurality ofconnectors may be selected.

Therefore, source power supplied to the backbone trunk line BB_LM fromthe main power source or the like branches at the location of thecontrol box CB(1) or CB(2), and is supplied to each accessory AE via thebranch line sub-harness LS connected to the branching location.

<Configuration Examples of Trunk Line>

FIGS. 50A and 50B illustrate configuration examples of the backbonetrunk line BB_LM. In the example illustrated in FIG. 50A, the backbonetrunk line BB_LM includes power source lines L1 and L2 of independenttwo systems, an earth line L3, and communication lines L4 and L5 formedof two electric wires. The power source lines L1 and L2, the earth lineL3, and the communication lines L4 and L5 are disposed as lines whichare parallel to each other so as to extend in parallel. In anenvironment in which each accessory AE can be connected to the ground ofthe power source along other paths such as the vehicle body ground, theearth line L3 may be omitted from the constituent elements of thebackbone trunk line BB_LM.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 50A, both of the power source linesL1 and L2 of two systems are configured to handle a common DC powersource voltage of 12 V. The control box CB has a function of selectingone of the power source lines L1 and L2 of two systems and supplyingpower to a downstream side. Therefore, for example, in a case where onlyone of the power source lines L1 and L2 is disconnected in the middle ofthe backbone trunk line BB_LM, each control box CB can continuouslysupply power by using the remaining normal path.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 50B, the backbone trunk line BB_LMincludes power source lines L1 and L2B of independent two systems, anearth line L3, and communication lines L4 and L5 formed of two electricwires. Of the power source lines L1 and L2B of two systems, one powersource line L1 is configured to handle a DC power source voltage of 12V. The other power source line L2B is configured to handle a DC powersource voltage of 48 V.

Therefore, in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 50B, the control boxCB may select one of the two kinds of power source voltages and supplythe selected voltage to the accessory AE under control thereof. Thus, anappropriate power source voltage may be automatically selected dependingon, for example, characteristics or situations of a load. For example,in a case where the load has large power consumption, a large powersource current flows and a voltage drop in a supply line path increases,and thus, it is possible to prevent an increase in a power loss byselecting a higher power source voltage. As in the example illustratedin FIG. 50B, in a case where only one of the power source lines L1 andL2B is disconnected, each control box CB can continuously supply powerby using the remaining normal path.

In a case where two kinds of power source voltages are used, a voltagemay be stepped up from 12 V to 48 V on the main power source side so asto be supplied to the backbone trunk line BB_LM, and power of 12 Vsupplied from the backbone trunk line BB_LM may be stepped up to begenerated as power of 48 V in either of the control boxes CB.

<Circuit Configuration Example of Power Source System>

FIG. 51 illustrates a specific configuration example regarding a powersource system in the control box CB. In this configuration, amicrocomputer (CPU) CBa, a switch circuit CBb, and a bridge circuit CBcare provided in the control box CB.

The microcomputer CBa is configured by a field-programmable gate array(FPGA), and thus a configuration and an operation thereof can bereconfigured according to an external program rewriting instruction(reprogram). A configuration of the FPGA in the present specification isonly an example.

The microcomputer CBa is connected to a predetermined diagnosis tool DTvia a communication line Lx. Actually, there is a case where thediagnosis tool DT is connected only when adjustment or maintenance isperformed in a vehicle factory, and a case where the diagnosis tool DTis normally mounted on a vehicle in order to automatically solve aproblem through diagnosis performed at all times.

As the communication line Lx, the communication lines L4 and L5 of thebackbone trunk line BB_LM may be used without being changed, or adedicated communication line may be separately prepared. If apredetermined manager gives an instruction by using the diagnosis toolDT, or a predetermined recovery program is executed, the diagnosis toolDT can rewrite a program regarding a configuration and an operation ofthe microcomputer CBa.

The switch circuit CBb includes a plurality of switching elements whichdistribute power of a DC power source voltage (+B) supplied from thepower source line L1 or L2 of the backbone trunk line BB_LM to aplurality of output systems, and perform switching between ON and OFF ofconduction for the respective output systems. In the example illustratedin FIG. 51, six power field effect transistors (FETs) are used asswitching elements. Each of the switching elements is configured to beturned on and off according to an output from the microcomputer CBa.Regarding an operation of the switching element, in addition to simpleturning-on and turning-off, for example, an output power adjustmentfunction may be provided by performing pulse width control (PWM) usingturning-on and turning-off. Furthermore, although a +B load, an ACC loadand an IG load must be connected respectively according to theconventional construction, it is possible to connect a +B load, an ACCload and an IG load to any portion since the power FET can havefunctions equivalent to an ACC relay and an IG relay by using reprogram.

The bridge circuit CBc includes a plurality of switching elements forconnecting the plurality of output systems located on the output side ofthe switch circuit CBb to each other as bridges. Each of the switchingelements is also configured to be turned on and off according to anoutput from the microcomputer CBa.

<Configuration Example of Power Control Function>

FIG. 52 illustrates a specific example of a power control function CBxof the control box CB. In the example, the control box CB has six kindsof functions CBx0, CBx1, CBx2, CBx3, CBx4 and CBx5 illustrated in FIG.52 as representative power control functions. These functions arerealized through processes performed by the microcomputer CBa.

Function CBx0: The microcomputer CBa detects various situations, andsupplies power of all of the plurality of systems supplied from thebackbone trunk line BB_LM or selectively supplies power of only onethereof to a downstream side, that is, the accessories AE sides,depending on a detected situation. For example, in a case where thebackbone trunk line BB_LM has the configuration illustrated in FIG. 50A,if disconnection of one of the power source lines L1 and L2 is detected,only power supplied from a normal path of the power source lines L1 andL2 is supplied to an output path. For example, in a case where thebackbone trunk line BB_LM has the configuration illustrated in FIG. 50B,power of higher voltage (48 V) supplied from the power source line L2Bis preferentially selected and is output based on a specification, orpreferentially selected and is output to an output system connected tothe accessory AE having an actually large load current.

Function CBx1: The microcomputer CBa identifies the type of power to besupplied to each branch line. Regarding the type of power, specifically,there are “+B” power which is supplied at all times, “ACC” power whosesupply is in conjunction with turning-on and turning-off of an accessoryswitch, and “IG” power whose supply is in conjunction with turning-onand turning-off of an ignition switch. The microcomputer CBa identifiesthe kind of the accessory AE connected thereto and under the controlthereof, and selectively supplies power of a more appropriate type among“+B, ACC, and IG” to a corresponding branch line. Power of a typedetermined in advance on the basis of constant data of a program may besupplied to each branch line, and information such as an ID may beacquired from the actually connected accessory AE so that the type ofpower may be identified.

Function CBx2: The microcomputer CBa monitors turning-on and turning-offstates of an accessory switch and an ignition switch provided in avehicle side, and controls ON and OFF of power of each output system foreach type. In other words, power is supplied to a branch line of anoutput system to which “ACC: accessory” is allocated as the type ofpower by turning on the switch circuit CBb only when the accessoryswitch is turned on, and power is not supplied when the accessory switchis turned off. Power is supplied to a branch line of an output system towhich “IG: ignition” is allocated as the type of power by turning on theswitch circuit CBb only when the ignition switch is turned on, and poweris not supplied when the ignition switch is turned off.

Function CBx3: The microcomputer CBa changes (reprograms) the types “+B,ACC, and IG” of source power supplied to each branch line in response toan instruction from the diagnosis tool DT. For example, the type ofpower output from an element “FET4” of the switch circuit CBb isallocated to “IG” in a normal state. When a certain necessity for changeoccurs, the type of power output from the element “FET4” is changed to“ACC” by executing the reprogram of the microcomputer CBa. This changeinfluences control conditions for a control signal which is given to theelement “FET4” by the microcomputer CBa. In other words, in a case where“IG” is allocated as the type of power, a control signal for the element“FET4” is changed according to a state of the ignition switch. In a casewhere “ACC” is allocated as the type of power, a control signal for theelement “FET4” is changed according to a state of the accessory switch.

Function CBx4: The microcomputer CBa protects a corresponding electricwire for each branch line connected to an output side. Specifically, anactually conduction current in each output system is measured, an amountof heat is calculated on the basis of the conduction current, and acorresponding system of the switch circuit CBb is interrupted before atemperature increases to a predetermined level or more.

Function CBx5: The microcomputer CBa detects a failure in each switchcircuit CBb, and automatically avoids the failure so as to maintain thefunction in a case where the failure is detected. Specifically, adjacentoutput systems are connected to each other by using the bridge circuitCBc, and the supply of power to an output side is continuously performedby temporarily using a path which does not pass through an element wherethe failure has occurred.

Instead of the above “+B, ACC, and IG”, “+BA”, “IGP”, and “IGR” may beemployed as a new classification of the type of power. “+BA” indicatespower of a system which is turned on when a user comes close to avehicle. “IGP” indicates power of a system which is turned on whenignition is brought into an ON state, and then an engine is in a fullstate. “IGR” indicates power of a system which is turned on when wheelsrotate. Even in a case where such newly classified type of power isemployed, the respective functions CBx1 and CBx2 illustrated in FIG. 52can be realized in the same manner by acquiring information required forcontrol.

<Characteristic Techniques Regarding Communication> <Technique forUninterrupted Communication>

FIG. 53 illustrates a configuration example of a communication systemmounted on a vehicle. A configuration illustrated in FIG. 53 employs acommunication trunk line BB_LC formed in a ring form. Although notillustrated in FIG. 53, the communication trunk line BB_LC is integrallyformed with a wire harness for power supply or a backbone trunk lineincluding a specially provided power source line.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 53, a plurality of controlboxes CB(1) to CB(4) are connected in the middle of the communicationtrunk line BB_LC in a distribution manner. Accessories AE(1) to AE(4)are respectively connected to and under the control of the control boxesCB(1) to CB(4) via branch line sub-harnesses LS(1) to LS(4). Theaccessories AE correspond to electric components such as various loadsor an electronic control unit (ECU) disposed on a vehicle.

Each of the plurality of control boxes CB(1) to CB(4) has a function ofsupplying power diverging from a trunk line to the accessory AE via thebranch line sub-harness LS, or branching a communication path passingthrough the communication trunk line BB_LC. Each branch line sub-harnessLS includes a power source line and a communication line. The branchline sub-harness LS may include an earth line.

In a system having the configuration illustrated in FIG. 53, a case isassumed in which communication is performed between the accessory AE(1)and the accessory AE(2). In this case, in the communication trunk lineBB_LC in a ring form, a path between the control box CB(1) and thecontrol box CB(2) is used, and thus communication can be performed alongthe shortest path.

Further, a part of the communication trunk line BB_LC may bedisconnected. However, even if the communication trunk line BB_LC isdisconnected on the path between the control box CB(1) and the controlbox CB(2), the entire path has a ring form, and thus another path may beused. In other words, a communication path reaching the control boxCB(2) from the control box CB(1) via the control box CB(4) and thecontrol box CB(3) can be used, and thus a communication path between theaccessory AE(1) and the accessory AE(2) is not interrupted.

The communication trunk line BB_LC in a ring form as illustrated in FIG.53 may also be applied to a communication system having a linear path,such as the backbone trunk line BB_LM illustrated in FIG. 49, withoutbeing changed. For example, two trunk lines such as a communicationtrunk line BB_LC for a forward route and a communication trunk lineBB_LC for a backward route are disposed on the linear backbone trunkline BB_LM in parallel to each other as a set, and ends of thecommunication trunk lines BB_LC for a forward route and a backward routeare connected to each other, and thus a communication path in a ringform, that is, in a closed loop can be configured.

<Security Technique for Connection Portion> <Protection Using PhysicalMeans>

FIGS. 55A, 55B and 55C illustrate specific examples of techniques forphysically protecting the connection portion Cnx of each control box CB.A circuit board CBd illustrated in FIGS. 55A, 55B and 55C is provided ineach control box CB.

Each of the control boxes CB(1) to CB(4) has the connection portions Cnxincluding a plurality of connectors so as to be connected to variousaccessories AE via the branch line sub-harnesses LS or the like. Theconnectors are configured to be suitable for a predetermined standardsuch as the universal serial bus (USB), and the plurality of connectorsare disposed to be arranged side by side for connection to a pluralityof apparatuses.

However, in a specific control box CB, none of the connectors of theconnection portion Cnx may be used, or some of the connectors of theconnection portion Cnx may not be used, due to a difference in a vehiclemodel, a difference in a grade, a difference in a destination, and adifference in an option selected by a user purchasing a vehicle. If aconfiguration of each control box CB is changed so as to reflect thedifference in the vehicle model, the difference in the grade, thedifference in the destination, or the like, such a configuration cannotbe used in common, and thus the number of control boxes CB is increased,thereby also increasing manufacturing cost.

On the other hand, in a case where a connector in an unoccupied state inwhich no branch line sub-harness LS is connected thereto in a definedvehicular default state is present in the connection portion Cnx, a useror a third party may freely and illegally connect a certain apparatus tothe connector in an unoccupied state. Physical configurationsillustrated in FIGS. 55A, 55B and 55C are used to prevent suchillegality.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 55A, a case is assumed in whichnone of six connectors of the connection portion Cnx are used.Therefore, openings of all of the connectors are closed by using aphysical cover Kc1 with a key so that none of the connectors of theconnection portion Cnx are freely used.

The cover Kc1 with a key is a cover covering an outside of theconnection portion Cnx, and can be fixed to the connection portion Cnxcorrectly. The cover Kc1 with a key has a key mechanism built therein,and has a structure in which fixation of the cover Kc1 with a key cannotbe unlocked unless an operation is performed by using a physical unlockkey Kk prepared in advance. Therefore, a person without the unlock keyKk cannot illegally connect any apparatus to the connectors of theconnection portion Cnx.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 55B, a case is assumed in whichthe predetermined branch line sub-harnesses LS or the like are connectedto some connectors of the connection portion Cnx, and remainingconnectors are in an unoccupied state. Therefore, in the connectionportion Cnx, openings or the like of the connectors in an unoccupiedstate are individually closed by using a physical cover Kc2 with a keyso that the connectors are not freely used.

The cover Kc2 with a key is structurally fixed to a connector in a stateof closing a corresponding single opening as a result of being attachedto one of the six connectors having the same shape and size in theconnection portion Cnx. In the same manner as the cover Kc1 with a key,the cover Kc2 with a key has a key mechanism built therein, and has astructure in which fixation of the cover Kc2 with a key cannot beunlocked unless an operation is performed by using a physical unlock keyKk prepared in advance.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 55C, a case is assumed in whichthe predetermined branch line sub-harnesses LS or the like are connectedto some connectors of the connection portion Cnx, and remainingconnectors are in an unoccupied state. Therefore, in the connectionportion Cnx, openings or the like of the connectors in an unoccupiedstate are individually closed by using a physical seal Ks for sealing sothat the connectors are not freely used. There may be a configuration inwhich openings of a plurality of connectors are collectively coveredwith a single seal Ks for sealing.

For example, the seal Ks for sealing is formed in an elongated and thintape form, and is made of a resin. For example, a special pattern isformed on a surface of the seal Ks for sealing through printing so as tobe clearly differentiated from other seals generally available in themarket. Both ends of the seal Ks for sealing in a longitudinal directionare fixed to the connection portion Cnx via an adhesive or the like.

In a case where a user or the like illegally uses a specific connectorwhose opening is covered with the seal Ks for sealing so as not to beused, the seal Ks for sealing is broken or the adhesive location is tornoff, and thus signs of removing the seal can be physically left. Inother words, illegal use of a connector can be easily confirmed by apredetermined manager or the like after the illegal use is performed.

<Protection Based on Control>

FIG. 56 illustrates a specific example of a technique for protecting theconnection portion Cnx of each control box CB on the basis of electricalcontrol. In other words, a microcomputer (not illustrated) provided onthe circuit board CBd performs control illustrated in FIG. 56, and thusprotects an unused connector of the connection portion Cnx from illegaluse.

The microcomputer on the circuit board CBd recognizes whether or noteach connector of the connection portion Cnx managed by themicrocomputer is used on the basis of a program and constant datawritten in advance by using a diagnosis tool. The microcomputer monitorsvoltages at a plurality of terminals provided in the respectiveconnectors, and can thus actually detect whether or not a certainapparatus is connected to a connector.

In step S11, the microcomputer monitors whether or not eachcommunication port connector is connected for each connector. If newconnection to each connector is detected in step S12, the flow proceedsto step S13. In a case where the connector to which a new connection isdetected is registered as an unused connector, the flow proceeds to thenext step S14, and a process of detecting illegal connection isperformed.

Through the process in step S14, for example, data indicating theillegal use is preserved in a nonvolatile memory, or abnormality displayregarding the illegal use is performed on a display such as a meterunit. Communication using a corresponding connector may be automaticallyinterrupted so that illegal use of an apparatus is prevented.

<Technique for Mutually Connecting Communication Networks andCommunication Apparatuses Based on Various Specifications>

FIG. 54 illustrates a configuration example of a communication systemmounted on a vehicle. The communication system illustrated in FIG. 54includes a communication trunk line BB_LC. Although not illustrated inFIG. 54, the communication trunk line BB_LC is integrally formed with awire harness for power supply or a backbone trunk line including aspecially provided power source line. The backbone trunk line isprovided with an earth line as necessary.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 54, a plurality of controlboxes CB(1), CB(2) and CB(3) are connected to the communication trunkline BB_LC used in common in a state of being distributed to a pluralityof areas AR1, AR2 and AR3. Specific examples of the areas AR1, AR2 andAR3 may include an engine room, an instrument panel region, a floorregion, and a luggage room.

Each of the control boxes CB(1) to CB(3) has a function of dividingpower supplied to a trunk line so as to supply the power to theaccessory AE, or a function of branching a path of a communication lineso as to secure a connection path. In the configuration illustrated inFIG. 54, each of the plurality of control boxes CB(1), CB(2) and CB(3)includes a gateway GW.

Each of the plurality of gateways GW(1) to GW(3) illustrated in FIG. 54fundamentally has a function of connecting networks or apparatuses basedon different specifications such as communication protocols to eachother.

For example, in a system on a vehicle, communication apparatuses ornetworks based on various standards using different specifications, suchas Controller Area Network (CAN), CAN with Flexible Data Rate (CAN_FD),Clock Extensible Peripheral Interface (CXPI), Ethernet (registeredtrademark), and an optical communication network, may be employed foreach area, each vehicle model, and the like. The gateway GW absorbs sucha difference between the specifications, and thus apparatuses havingdifferent specifications can be communicably connected to each other.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 54, a gateway GW isrespectively provided in the control box CB for each area, and thuscommunication lines can be connected to each other by using the gatewayGW even if a communication specification differs for each area.

<Technique for Enabling High-Speed Communication and Technique forGateway>

FIG. 57 illustrates configuration examples of the control box CB havingan optical communication function and a gateway function and acommunication system of the backbone trunk line BB_LM. FIG. 58illustrates a configuration example for supplying source power to acommunication system.

Though only one control box CB is illustrated in FIG. 57, a plurality ofcontrol boxes CB are actually provided, and the backbone trunk lineBB_LM connects these control boxes CB with each other, as explained indetail in other embodiments.

Also in the system illustrated in FIG. 57, the control box CB isconnected to the backbone trunk line BB_LM. The backbone trunk lineBB_LM illustrated in FIG. 57 includes power source lines L1 and L2, anearth line L3, and communication lines L4B and LSB. In FIG. 57, GNDindicates the ground, that is, the earth.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 57, the power source line L1 isconnected to a main battery (BATT) of the vehicle, and the power sourceline L2 is connected to a sub-battery. The communication lines L4B andL5B are formed of optical fibers so as to cope with opticalcommunication. The optical communication is employed in the trunk line,and thus high-speed communication can be performed at various locationson the vehicle. Also, it is hard to be influenced by noise.

The control box CB illustrated in FIG. 57 copes with each communicationfunction in Ethernet (Trademark), CAN_FD, and CXPI in addition to theoptical communication. Specifically, eight sets of communication portconnectors CP1 to CP8 are provided in the control box CB. Thecommunication port connectors CP1 and CP2 are communication ports foruse only in Ethernet (Trademark), and each of the communication portconnectors CP3 to CP8 is a communication port for which one ofspecifications such as CAN_FD and CXPI is selectable. Each of the eightsets of communication port connectors CP1 to CP8 has a specificationcorresponding to a metal communication line. A branch line has a metalspecification, and thus component cost of the branch line can bereduced.

As illustrated in FIG. 57, the control box CB includes a power sourcecircuit CB01, a gateway control circuit CB02, PHY circuits CB03, CB04,CB05 and CB06, network switches CB07 and CB08, transceivers CB09 andCB10, and a switching circuit CB11.

The power source circuit CB01 is connected to the power source lines L1and L2 and the earth line L3, and a power source voltage, for example,“+5 V” required in each circuit such as the gateway control circuit CB02is generated on the basis of source power supplied from the backbonetrunk line BB_LM.

The gateway control circuit CB02 is formed of a microcomputer, andrealizes a function of a gateway (GW). In other words, protocolconversion between communications based on different standards or signalswitching control is performed. A control signal for switching in theswitching circuit CB11 is also generated.

The PHY circuits CB03, CB04, CB05 and CB06 provide an interface functionof a physical layer in Ethernet (Trademark). Each of the PHY circuitsCB03 and CB04 has a function of performing mutual conversion between anoptical signal and an electric signal or mutual conversion between adigital signal and an analog signal so as to correspond to twowavelengths of the optical signal. Each of the PHY circuits CB05 andCB06 has a function of performing mutual conversion between a digitalsignal and an analog signal so as to correspond to a signal based on themetal standard of Ethernet (Trademark).

The network switches CB07 and CB08 are switch circuits corresponding tothe standards of Ethernet (Trademark), and have a function ofdetermining whether or not transmission to each connected apparatus isto be performed by taking into consideration a destination of receiveddata.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 57, the network switch CB07 hasa function of controlling a chassis system and a power train system onthe vehicle system. The network switch CB08 has a function ofcontrolling a body system, an entertainment system, a driving assistancesystem, and a high-grade driving assistance system on the vehiclesystem. The network switch CB07 is connected between the PHY circuitsCB03 and CB04, and the gateway control circuit CB02. The network switchCB08 is connected between the PHY circuits CB03 to CB06, and the gatewaycontrol circuit CB02.

The transceivers CB09 and CB10 are connected between the gateway controlcircuit CB02 and the switching circuit CB11. The transceiver CB09 has afunction of transmitting and receiving signals corresponding to thestandard of CAN_FD. The transceiver CB10 has a function of transmittingand receiving signals corresponding to the standard of CXPI.

The switching circuit CB11 has a switching function of enabling CAN_FDusing two communication lines and CXPI using a single communication lineto be used by the common communication port connectors CP3 to CP8.Specifically, the switching circuit CB11 has twelve switching elementsfor switching between signals which are input to the respectivecommunication port connectors CP3 to CP8. Turning-on and turning-off ofthe switching elements are controlled on the basis of control signalsoutput from the gateway control circuit CB02, and thus signals suitablefor any one of CAN_FD and CXPI can be used by the communication portconnectors CP3 to CP8.

For example, in a case where an accessory AE such as cameras or varioussensors requiring a relatively high communication speed is connected toand under the control of the control box CB, it is possible to satisfy aspecification required for high-speed communication by using, forexample, the communication port connector CP1 or CP2. In a case where anaccessory AE performing relatively low-speed communication is connected,it is possible to ensure a necessary minimum communication function byusing the communication port connectors CP3 to CP8.

FIG. 58 illustrates a circuit configuration example for supplying sourcepower to each of the communication port connectors CP1 to CP8. In theconfiguration illustrated in FIG. 58, terminals CBz1 and CBz2 providedin the control box CB are connected to a main power source.Specifically, the terminal CBz1 is connected to a positive electrode ofthe main battery MB via a fusible link FL built in the main battery MB.The terminal CBz2 of the control box CB is connected to a negativeelectrode of the main battery MB. The terminals CBz1 and CBz2 arerespectively connected to the power source line L1 and the earth line L3of the backbone trunk line BB_LM. The power source line L2 of thebackbone trunk line BB_LM is connected to a positive electrode of asub-battery (not illustrated).

A power source circuit CB01 a for supplying source power to each of thecommunication port connectors CP1 to CP8 of eight systems is built inthe control box CB. The power source circuit CB01 a includes switchcircuits SW01 and SW02, and diodes D1 and D2 for each system regardingthe communication port connector.

Each of the switch circuits SW01 and SW02 is formed as a circuit inwhich a switching element whose turning-on and turning-off can becontrolled by a control circuit of the control box CB is connected inseries to a fuse. The diodes D1 and D2 have a function of preventing areverse current.

Therefore, if, of the switch circuits SW01 and SW02, only the switchcircuit SW01 is turned on, power from the main power source can besupplied to each of the communication port connectors CP1 to CP8. If, ofthe switch circuits SW01 and SW02, only the switch circuit SW02 isturned on, power from the sub-power source can be supplied to each ofthe communication port connectors CP1 to CP8.

<Special Optical Communication Technique> <Combination of a Plurality ofCommunication Paths>

FIG. 101 illustrates a configuration example of a communication systemof an on-vehicle system. The on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 101includes five control boxes CB(1) to CB(5). Three control boxes CB(1),CB(2) and CB(3) are connected to each other via a communication trunkline BB_LC configured in a ring form. A peer-to-peer (P2P) communicationline LPP1 is connected between the control box CB(1) and the control boxCB(4), and a P2P communication line LPP2 is connected between thecontrol box CB(1) and the control box CB(5). Optical communication isused for all of the communication trunk line BB_LC, and thecommunication lines LPP1 and LPP2.

In a case where the optical communication is used, each relay node on acommunication path corresponding to the control box CB performs aprocess of converting a received optical signal into an electricalsignal, converting the electrical signal to an optical signal again, andsending the optical signal to a transmission path. Therefore, a delay ofan optical signal occurs for each relay node. In a case where acommunication path of the entire system is configured in a ring form, adelay of an optical signal increases due to an increase in the number ofconnected relay nodes.

On the other hand, since, in the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG.101, the communication trunk line BB_LC having a ring form and the P2Pcommunication lines LPP1 and LPP2 are combined with each other, a signaldelay can be reduced, and high-speed communication can be performed. Inother words, since the number of nodes on the communication trunk lineBB_LC having a ring form is three, a delay occurring on the ring can beminimized.

Therefore, for example, in a case where optical communication isperformed between the control box CB(3) and the control box CB(4), asignal delay is reduced, and thus high-speed communication can beperformed, compared with a case where the entire communication path isconfigured in a ring form.

Since the communication trunk line BB_LC having a ring form is provided,there is redundancy in the communication path, and thus reliability ofcommunication is improved. In other words, in a case where disconnectionoccurs at a single location on the communication trunk line BB_LC,communication can be performed by using other paths which are notdisconnected. A trunk line may be formed of a transmission path foroptical communication, a branch line may be formed of a transmissionpath for an electrical signal, and these may be combined with eachother.

<Simultaneous Use of Optical Signals with a Plurality of Wavelengths>

FIG. 102 illustrates a configuration example of a section of thecommunication trunk line BB_LC in the on-vehicle system illustrated inFIG. 101. In other words, as illustrated in FIG. 102, the communicationtrunk line BB_LC illustrated in FIG. 101 includes an optical fiber cableFBC1 forming a forward route and an optical fiber cable FBC2 forming abackward route. Each of the optical fiber cables FBC1 and FBC2 has twooptical fibers FB11 and FB12 built therein.

In the present embodiment, both of a specific wavelength λ1 and awavelength λ2 which is different from the wavelength λ1 are respectivelyused for handled optical signals. As illustrated in FIG. 102, oneoptical fiber cable FBC1 transmits an optical signal having thewavelength λ1, and the other optical fiber cable FBC2 transmits anoptical signal having the wavelength λ2.

Therefore, two communication paths can be secured together by usingoptical signals corresponding to two wavelengths on the communicationtrunk line BB_LC, and thus redundancy can be provided. Consequently, itis possible to improve reliability of communication.

As a specific example, optical signals corresponding to two kinds ofwavelengths are used depending on importance or priority. For example, asignal used to control an important load on a vehicle is allocated to anoptical signal having the wavelength λ1, and a signal used to control aload having low importance is allocated to an optical signalcorresponding to the wavelength λ2. In a case where communication usingan optical signal having the wavelength λ1 on which an important load isput is interrupted, information to be transmitted is automaticallytransmitted by using an optical signal having the wavelength λ2.Consequently, it is possible to secure a path for continuouslyperforming communication. This control may be performed by using amicrocomputer on each control box CB.

<Use of Wavelength Multiplexing/Time Division Multiplexing (TDM)>

FIG. 103 illustrates a configuration example of an optical signal onwhich wavelength multiplexing and time division multiplexing areperformed. FIG. 104 illustrates a configuration example of acommunication system of an on-vehicle system performing opticalwavelength multiplex communication.

For example, in a case where an optical signal having the wavelength λ1and an optical signal having the wavelength λ2 are used together, thewavelengths of the two optical signals are different from each other,and thus the signals may be transmitted with a single optical fiberthrough wavelength multiplexing as in FIG. 103.

Therefore, either one of the two optical fibers FB11 and FB12illustrated in FIG. 102 can be omitted. High priority may be allocatedto the optical signal having the wavelength λ1, and low priority may beallocated to the optical signal having the wavelength λ2. The opticalsignals are subjected to time division multiplexing, and thus opticalsignals ch1, ch2 and ch3 of a plurality of channels can be sequentiallytransmitted as illustrated in FIG. 103 by a single communication line.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 104, three control boxesCB(1), CB(2) and CB(3) are connected to each other via the communicationtrunk line BB_LC. The communication trunk line BB_LC illustrated in FIG.104 is formed of an optical fiber for a forward route and an opticalfiber a backward route, and is configured in a ring form as a whole.

An optical signal subjected to wavelength multiplexing and time divisionmultiplexing is sent onto a single optical fiber of the communicationtrunk line BB_LC as illustrated in FIG. 103, and thus opticalcommunication can be performed between the control box CB(1) to thecontrol box CB(3).

Each of the control boxes CB(1) to CB(3) illustrated in FIG. 104includes a reception side circuit and a transmission side circuit. Thereception side circuit includes a splitter 2057-1, optical/electricalconversion units (O/E) 2057-2 and 2057-3, branching units (DROP) 2057-4and 2057-5, and a time division demultiplexer 2057-6. The transmissionside circuit includes a time division multiplexer 2057-7, insertingunits (ADD) 2057-8 and 2057-9, and electrical/optical conversion units(E/O) 2057-10 and 2057-11.

In other words, in the control boxes CB(1) to CB(3), an optical signalis incident to the reception side circuit from the single optical fiberof the communication trunk line BB_LC. The optical signal is dividedinto two optical signals respectively having the wavelengths λ1 and λ2in the splitter 2057-1. The divided optical signal having the wavelengthλ1 is converted into an electrical signal by the /optical/electricalconversion unit 2057-2, and branches into two systems in the branchingunit 2057-4. One branched electrical signal is input to the timedivision demultiplexer 2057-6, and the other electrical signal is inputto the transmission side circuit.

Similarly, the divided optical signal having the wavelength λ2 isconverted into an electrical signal by the optical/electrical conversionunit 2057-3, and branches into two systems in the branching unit 2057-5.One branched electrical signal is input to the time divisiondemultiplexer 2057-6, and the other electrical signal is input to thetransmission side circuit. The time division demultiplexer 2057-6divides the input electrical signals which are output from the branchingunits 2057-4 and 2057-5 for each time, so as to generate signals of aplurality of channels (ch1, ch2, and ch3).

For example, the control box CB(1) sends a received signal of a firstchannel output from the time division demultiplexer 2057-6 to accessoryAE11 (ADAS ECU). The control box CB(2) may use a received signal of asecond channel output from the time division demultiplexer 2057-6. Thecontrol box CB(3) sends a received signal of a third channel output fromthe time division demultiplexer 2057-6 to accessory AE31 (rear monitor).

In the transmission side circuit of the control box CB(1), a signal foran accessory AE12 (ridar) is input to the time division multiplexer2057-7 as a signal having high priority, and a signal for an accessoryAE13 (DVD player) is input to the time division multiplexer 2057-7 as asignal having low priority, by using the channel (ch1) allocated to thiscontrol box CB. The time division multiplexer 2057-7 allocates the inputsignals of two systems respectively to corresponding timings of thechannel, so as to generate electrical signals subjected to time divisionmultiplexing. The signal having high priority and the signal having lowpriority are respectively input to the inserting units 2057-8 and 2057-9from the time division multiplexer 2057-7.

The inserting unit 2057-8 generates a signal obtained by combining thereceived signal with the output from the time division multiplexer2057-7 for each channel with respect to the signal having high priority.The inserting unit 2057-9 generates a signal obtained by combining thereceived signal with the output from the time division multiplexer2057-7 for each channel with respect to the signal having low priority.

The output signal from the inserting unit 2057-8 is converted into anoptical signal having the wavelength λ1 by the electrical/opticalconversion unit 2057-10. The output signal from the inserting unit2057-9 is converted into an optical signal having the wavelength λ2 bythe electrical/optical conversion unit 2057-11. The optical signalhaving the wavelength λ1 output from the electrical/optical conversionunit 2057-10 and the optical signal having the wavelength λ2 output fromthe electrical/optical conversion unit 2057-11 are simultaneouslysupplied to a single common optical fiber of the communication trunkline BB_LC, and are transmitted as an optical signal subjected towavelength multiplexing.

Similarly, in the transmission side circuit of the control box CB(2), asignal for an accessory AE21 (camera) is input to the time divisionmultiplexer 2057-7 as a signal having high priority, and a signal for anaccessory AE22 (camera) is input to the time division multiplexer 2057-7as a signal having low priority, by using the channel (ch2) allocated tothis control box CB. In the transmission side circuit of the control boxCB(3), a signal for an accessory AE32 (camera) is input to the timedivision multiplexer 2057-7 as a signal having high priority by usingthe channel (ch3) allocated to this control box CB.

In any case, in the communication system of the on-vehicle systemillustrated in FIG. 104, an optical signal subjected to wavelengthmultiplexing and time division multiplexing can be transmitted by usinga single optical fiber of the communication trunk line BB_LC asillustrated in FIG. 103.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 104, both of the two kindsof wavelengths λ1 and λ2 are used, and signal processing is separatelyperformed for each wavelength. A difference between the wavelengths iscorrelated with a difference between priorities. Therefore, in a casewhere a failure occurs in communication using either one of the twokinds of the wavelengths λ1 and λ2, for example, switching control maybe performed so that a normal communication line is used fortransmitting a signal having high priority. A communication path can besecured with only a single optical fiber.

<Other Characteristic Techniques> <Technique of Reducing the Number ofComponents of Wire Harness>

FIG. 59 is an exploded view illustrating a configuration example of awire harness obtained by combining a printed circuit board with electricwires.

A configuration of a wire harness may variously change depending on adifference in a vehicle model, a difference in a grade, a difference ina destination, and a difference in an option. If the configurationchanges, it is necessary to individually add a component number to eachcomponent for each configuration. If the number of kinds ofconfigurations increases, the number of components increases and thusmanufacturing also increases.

Therefore, a constituent element of a wire harness is divided into abase in which a configuration does not change and an addition in which aconfiguration changes. As in a backbone member 2012-1 illustrated inFIG. 59, a circuit formed on a printed circuit board (PCB) is used as anaddition element of a wire harness, a sub-harness 2012-2 formed ofelectric wires is used as a base element of the wire harness, and theentire wire harness is configured by combining the addition element withthe base element.

Here, the circuit formed on the printed circuit board is easilyconfigured as an electronic circuit, and has, for example, afield-programmable gate array (FPGA) device built therein so as torewrite a program, and thus a circuit configuration can be easilychanged. Thus, hardware common to all elements can be employed in thebackbone member 2012-1, and thus it is possible to prevent an increasein the number of components.

<Technique for Coping with Connection of Post-Installation Apparatus orCarry-in Apparatus>

FIG. 60 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an exterior ofa control box having USB ports.

A control box 2013-1 illustrated in FIG. 60 is connected to a backbonetrunk line 2012-0, and includes a plurality of standard communicationports 2013-2 so as to be connected to predetermined branch lineharnesses. Specifically, a plurality of connectors having acommunication function based on a universal serial bus (USB) standardare provided in the standard communication ports 2013-2. Therefore,various apparatuses can be connected to the backbone trunk line 2012-0via the control box 2013-1 as long as the apparatus has a standardizedcommunication port. In other words, it is easy to post-install variousapparatuses or to connect an apparatus carried in a vehicle by a user.

<Technique for Diversifying Functions of Control Box or the Like>

FIGS. 61A, 61B and 61C are plan views illustrating three configurationexamples of circuit boards built in a control box or the like.

In a wire harness or the like of a vehicle, functions to be supportedgreatly change depending on the kind of a vehicle model, the kind of agrade, the kind of a destination, the kind of an option, and the like.For example, the number of circuits, a current capacity, a processingspeed, and the number of processes with which each control box on abackbone trunk line should cope change depending on a grade or the likeof a vehicle. If functions satisfying all needs are installed in controlboxes of all grades, the minimum cost increases, and thus a low costvehicle cannot be provided. However, if a control box having aconfiguration optimal for each of various combinations of vehiclemodels, grades, destinations, options, and the like is prepared, thenumber of components considerably increases, and thus cost increases.

Therefore, as illustrated in FIGS. 61A, 61B and 61C, an increase in thenumber of components is prevented by using a component in common.Specifically, a necessary circuit function is realized by combining thestandardized circuit boards 2014-1A, 2014-1B and 2014-1C of three kindswith a microcomputer 2014-2 formed of an FPGA.

The circuit board 2014-1A is a circuit board for a grade A which is thehighest of three grades. The circuit board 2014-1B is a circuit boardfor a grade B which is the second highest of three grades. The circuitboard 2014-1C is a circuit board for a grade C which is the lowest ofthree grades. The circuit boards 2014-1A, 2014-1B and 2014-1C of threekinds have different sizes (large, medium, and small), and can thus copewith a change in the number of circuits through selection of the boards.The number of microcomputers 2014-2 is changed in order to cope with achange in the number of circuits.

In other words, since the number of circuits to cope with is small in acase of a low grade vehicle, the small-sized circuit board 2014-1C iscombined with a single microcomputer 2014-2 so as to realize a necessaryfunction as illustrated in FIG. 61C. Since the number of circuits tocope with is intermediate in a case of an intermediate grade vehicle,the medium-sized circuit board 2014-1B is combined with twomicrocomputers 2014-2 so as to realize a necessary function asillustrated in FIG. 61B. Since the number of circuits to cope with islarge in a case of a high grade vehicle, the large-sized circuit board2014-1A is combined with three microcomputers 2014-2 so as to realize anecessary function as illustrated in FIG. 61A.

Each microcomputer 2014-2 is an FPGA, and a program thereof is easilyrewritten. Therefore, the program of each microcomputer 2014-2 isrewritten in order to cope with a difference between variousspecifications such as a grade of a vehicle.

Therefore, in a case of employing the configurations illustrated inFIGS. 61A, 61B and 61C, any one of the three kinds of circuit boards2014-1A, 2014-1B and 2014-1C and one kind of microcomputer 2014-2 haveonly to be prepared, and thus it is possible to prevent increases in thenumber of kinds of components and the number of components.

<Technique for Reducing the Number of Components Such as Trunk Line>

FIG. 62 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of aconnection location of a routing member forming a trunk line.

For example, in a case of forming large-sized routing members such asthe backbone trunk line portions 2021, 2022 and 2023 illustrated in FIG.48, a single routing member may be configured by combining a pluralityof components used in common with each other in order to prevent anincrease in the number of kinds of components or an increase in thenumber of components due to a difference between specifications such asconfigurations or shapes.

In the configuration example illustrated in FIG. 62, two thin tabularrouting members 2015-1 and 2015-2 are connected to each other by buttingfacing surfaces thereof, so as to be integrated. Specifically, asillustrated in FIG. 62, a protrusion 2015-1 a is formed on a right endsurface of the routing member 2015-1, and a concave 2015-2 a having ashape complementary to that of the protrusion 2015-1 a is formed on aleft end surface of the routing member 2015-2.

A plurality of electrodes 2015-3 respectively connected to a powersource line (+12 V), the ground (GND), and a predetermined signal lineare disposed to be exposed to the right end surface of the routingmember 2015-1. Although not illustrated, similarly, electrodes which canbe respectively brought into contact with the electrodes 2015-3 are alsodisposed on the left end surface of the routing member 2015-2.

As mentioned above, the types of the routing members 2015-1 and 2015-2in which shapes of connection locations, electrode specifications, andthe like are standardized in advance, are selected, and the selectedmembers are combined with each other, so that the routing membercorresponding to various specifications can be configured. In this case,it is possible to reduce the number of types of standardized routingmembers and also to reduce the number of components.

<Technique for Coping with Change in Connection Specification>

FIG. 63 is a plan view illustrating a connection example between acontrol box on the trunk line and branch line sub-harnesses.

A control box 2016-1 illustrated in FIG. 63 is connected to, forexample, the backbone trunk line portions 2021, 2022 and 2023illustrated in FIG. 48. The whole function or specification of a wireharness is determined according to an order of a user who has ordered avehicle, and predetermined branch line sub-harnesses 2016-2A, 2016-2B,2016-2C and 2016-2D are connected to connection portions of the controlbox 2016-1.

A microcomputer whose program is easily rewritten is mounted on thecontrol box 2016-1. When such a wire harness is manufactured, aconduction checker 2016-3 is prepared to check whether or not there isthe occurrence of conduction between each terminal of the branch linesub-harnesses 2016-2A, 2016-2B, 2016-2C and 2016-2D and each terminal ofthe control box 2016-1 through actual connection. When the program ofthe microcomputer on the control box 2016-1 is rewritten with apredetermined tool, the content of the program is rewritten so as toreflect an actual conduction state in conjunction with the conductionchecker 2016-3.

Therefore, actually, a worker appropriately rewrites the program so thatthe kinds of branch line sub-harnesses 2016-2A, 2016-2B, 2016-2C and2016-2D assembled to the control box 2016-1, or a difference betweenconnection positions is reflected, and thus switching between circuitconnection states in the actual control box 2016-1 can occurautomatically. Thus, productivity of a wire harness is improved.

<Technique for Coping with Change in Connection Specification>

FIG. 64 is a plan view illustrating a connection example between acontrol box on the trunk line and branch line sub-harnesses.

A control box 2017-1 illustrated in FIG. 64 is connected to, forexample, the backbone trunk line portions 2021, 2022 and 2023illustrated in FIG. 48. The whole function or specification of a wireharness is determined according to an order of a user who has ordered avehicle, and predetermined branch line sub-harnesses 2017-2A, 2017-2B,2017-2C and 2017-2D are connected to connection portions of the controlbox 2017-1.

Here, each of the branch line sub-harnesses 2017-2A, 2017-2B, 2017-2Cand 2017-2D has a communication function, and transmits uniqueidentification information (ID) pre-allocated thereto to a microcomputerof the control box 2017-1 which is a connection destination. Themicrocomputer identifies any one of, for example, “ABCD”, “ABDC”, and“ACDB” as combinations of IDs transmitted from the branch linesub-harnesses 2017-2A, 2017-2B, 2017-2C and 2017-2D which are actuallyconnected thereto, and thus automatically selects a pattern of softwarewhich is to be applied to a connection destination of each branch line.

Therefore, a worker can freely select a connection position of each ofvarious branch line sub-harnesses 2017-2A, 2017-2B, 2017-2C and 2017-2D,and thus productivity is improved. Even in a case where any accessory ispost-installed, the microcomputer can automatically cope with theaccessory if the microcomputer recognizes the accessory in advance.

<Technique for Coping with Change in Connection Specification>

FIGS. 65A and 65B are plan views illustrating connection examplesbetween a trunk line and branch line sub-harnesses.

As illustrated in FIG. 65A, in a case where a backbone formed of a trunkline 2018-1 and a plurality of control boxes 2018-2 and 2018-3 isconnected to various accessories via various branch line sub-harnesses2018-4 and 2018-5, positions of connectors for connection of therespective branch line sub-harnesses 2018-4 and 2018-5 may change, orpin arrangement of the connectors may change.

For example, in the example illustrated in FIG. 65B, a case is assumedin which either one of an automatic air conditioner 2018-6A and a manualair conditioner 2018-6B which are accessories is selectively connectedto a connector 2018-2 b of the control box 2018-2 according to a changein a specification. In this case, pin arrangement of a connector for theautomatic air conditioner 2018-6A and pin arrangement of a connector forthe manual air conditioner 2018-6B are different from each other.

In order to cope with this change, a microcomputer 2018-2 a formed of anFPGA is mounted on the control box 2018-2, and a microcomputer 2018-3 aformed of an FPGA is also mounted on the control box 2018-3. Themicrocomputer 2018-2 a formed of an FPGA is mounted in main bodies orconnectors of the automatic air conditioner 2018-6A and the manual airconditioner 2018-6B illustrated in FIG. 65B.

Each connection destination is appropriately selected by themicrocomputers 2018-2 a and 2018-3 a rewriting a program according to aspecification for each circuit of the connected branch linesub-harnesses 2018-4 and 2018-5. As illustrated in FIG. 65B, amicrocomputer disposed in a branch line sub-harness on an accessory sideor a connector thereof performs controls so that a specificationdifference such as a connector pin arrangement difference is absorbed.Consequently, an accessory side can absorb a connection specification ina case where respective accessories are connected to the control boxes2018-2 and 2018-3, and a specification of the backbone side can be usedin common.

<Technique for Coping with Change in Connection Specification>

FIG. 66 is a perspective view illustrating a connection example betweena control box on a trunk line and branch line sub-harnesses.

A plurality of connectors 2019-1 a, 2019-1 b, 2019-1 c, 2019-1 d, 2019-1e and 2019-1 f which have the same size or shape are disposed to bearranged side by side on a control box 2019-1 illustrated in FIG. 66 inorder to connect various branch lines and accessories. In a case wherean accessory is connected to the control box 2019-1, any one of theplurality of connectors 2019-1 a to 2019-1 f is selected, and branchline sub-harnesses 2019-2A, 2019-2B and 2019-2C are respectivelyconnected.

Here, a worker can freely select a position of a connector which is aconnection destination of each of the branch line sub-harnesses 2019-2A,2019-2B, and 2019-2C as necessary when a vehicle is produced. A changein a position of a connector which is a connection destination of thebranch line sub-harnesses 2019-2A, 2019-2B, and 2019-2C is coped with byautomatically changing a circuit connection state in the control box2019-1 by a microcomputer formed of an FPGA built in the control box2019-1 rewriting a program.

Therefore, the worker can freely select a position of a connector whichis a connection destination of each of the branch line sub-harnesses2019-2A, 2019-2B, and 2019-2C, and thus productivity is improved. It ispossible to reduce the number of components by using a function incommon.

<Technique of Using AC Power>

FIG. 67 is a perspective view illustrating an arrangement example of atrunk line and a plurality of branch line sub-harnesses routed on avehicle body.

An on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 67 includes a backbone trunkline 2020-1 routed linearly in a front-and-rear direction of a vehiclebody, and a plurality of branch line sub-harnesses 2020-2A, 2020-2B and2020-2C connected to respective locations of the backbone trunk line2020-1. The respective branch line sub-harnesses 2020-2A, 2020-2B and2020-2C are connected to control boxes provided on the backbone trunkline 2020-1.

As a characteristic matter, AC power is supplied to the backbone trunkline 2020-1. Specifically, a voltage of about AC 200 V is used. Eachcontrol box is provided with a transformer and an AC/DC converter,transforms the AC power and converts the AC power into a predeterminedDC voltage in the control box, and then supplies to each of the branchline sub-harnesses 2020-2A, 2020-2B and 2020-2C. In the exampleillustrated in FIG. 67, DC power voltages such as DC 5 V, DC 48 V, andDC 12 V are respectively supplied to the branch line sub-harnesses2020-2A, 2020-2B and 2020-2C.

As mentioned above, AC power is made to flow through the backbone trunkline 2020-1, and thus it is possible to reduce a power loss in the trunkline compared with a case of DC power. Since a configuration is simple,and a voltage can be converted by using a cheap transformer, it ispossible to reduce cost of the system. A power loss is reduced, and thusfuel efficiency of a vehicle is improved.

<Technique of Using Multiplex Communication>

FIGS. 68A and 68B are block diagrams illustrating a plurality of controlboxes and a communication trunk line connecting the control boxes toeach other.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 68A, a communication line 2021-3of a backbone trunk line connecting two control box 2021-1 and 2021-2 toeach other is formed of a set of a plurality of electric wires. In otherwords, individual communication lines of the same number of signals tobe transmitted are required to be prepared in order to securecommunication paths, and thus, if the number of signals increases, thenumber of communication lines also increases.

On the other hand, in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 68B, acommunication line 2021-3B of a backbone trunk line connecting twocontrol box 2021-1B and 2021-2B to each other is formed of only one ortwo communication lines.

In other words, in a configuration illustrated in FIG. 68B, sincesignals of a plurality of systems are superimposed on a singlecommunication line by using a technique such as time divisionmultiplexing (TDM), it is possible to considerably reduce the number ofcommunication lines in a case where the number of signals to betransmitted increases. A technique such as frequency divisionmultiplexing (FDM) may be used instead of time division multiplexing(TDM).

In a case where the number of communication lines is large as in FIG.68A, a communication line may be required to be divided at anintermediate portion of a line path of a trunk line, but a communicationline is not required to be divided by reducing the number ofcommunication lines, and thus a configuration can be simplified.Therefore, the number of circuits and the number of components arereduced.

<Technique for Recovery During Occurrence of Abnormality>

FIG. 69 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a control box having a recovery function.

Abnormality such as disconnection of a circuit may occur in a backbonetrunk line or a control box. If such abnormality occurs, predeterminedsource power cannot be supplied to a branch line sub-harness or a loadside, and thus operations of accessories including various loads arestopped. In order to prevent this, a recovery function is provided.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 69, a case is assumed in whichsource power supplied from a main power source 2022-2 of a vehicle issupplied to two loads 2022-3 and 2022-4 via a control box 2022-1. If aswitch 2022-1 a is closed, power can be supplied to the load 2022-3. Ifa switch 2022-1 b is closed, power can be supplied to the load 2022-4.

However, if a failure such as disconnection occurs in a line pathconnected to the switch 2022-1 b, an abnormal state occurs in whichpower is not supplied to the load 2022-4 even if the switch 2022-1 b isclosed. Therefore, assuming that the load 2022-4 is a load havingconsiderably high priority, in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 69,a backup path 2022-1 c is connected in a state of in parallel to thepath of the switch 2022-1 b. The backup path 2022-1 c is connected to arelay 2022-1 d which can be turned on and off by a microcomputer 2022-1e.

If it is detected that abnormality has occurred in a conduction path ofthe switch 2022-1 b, the microcomputer 2022-1 e automatically switcheson the relay 2022-1 d so as to perform recovery control in which sourcepower is supplied to the load 2022-4 via the backup path 2022-1 c. Themicrocomputer 2022-1 e controls a warning display portion provided in ameter unit of a vehicle to display the occurrence of the failure. Thereliability regarding a wire harness and operations of variousaccessories is improved due to the recovery function.

<Proximity Wireless Communication Technique on Vehicle>

FIGS. 70A and 70B are block diagrams illustrating connection examplesbetween a wire harness and a load. FIG. 71 is a perspective viewillustrating a specific example of arrangement and connection of variousconstituent elements on a vehicle body.

As illustrated in FIG. 70A, in a case where various accessories disposedin a door 2023-3 of a vehicle are connected to a wire harness 2023-1 ona vehicle interior side via a wire harness, an electric wire bundle at abent part of the wire harness which is bent with opening and closing ofthe door generally is put in a grommet 2023-2 and thus has functionssuch as protection of electric wires, waterproof, dustproof, andsoundproof. However, in a case where a grommet is used, it is hard toperform routing work of a wire harness, and component cost alsoincreases.

Therefore, in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 70B, proximitywireless communication units 2023-5 and 2023-6 are used to connect acontrol box 2023-4 on a backbone on the vehicle interior side to variousaccessories disposed in a door 2023-7 of the vehicle. The proximitywireless communication units 2023-5 and 2023-6 has not only acommunication function but also a function of supplying source power ina wireless manner. Therefore, in a case of using the configurationillustrated in FIG. 70B, a grommet is not necessary, and routing workfor connection of accessories is also considerably simplified.

A description will be made on a more realistic configuration example ona vehicle. In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 71, a backbone mainline 2024-1, an instrument panel portion backbone 2024-2, an enginecompartment backbone 2024-3, and the like are routed at respectivelocations on a vehicle body as trunk lines. Control boxes 2024-41,2024-42, 2024-43, 2024-44 and 2024-45 are disposed at respectivelocations in these trunk lines.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 71, a steering module 2024-5and the control box 2024-41 are connected to each other in a wirelessmanner through proximity wireless communication. The respective controlboxes and the accessories in the door are also connected to each otherin a wireless manner through proximity wireless communication.Accessories such as a sensor 2024-7 and an antenna 2024-8 disposed in aluggage space and the control box 2024-45 are also connected to eachother in a wireless manner through proximity wireless communication.

<Technique for Noise Countermeasure>

FIGS. 72A, 72B and 72C are block diagrams illustrating specific examplesof connection states of a trunk line, a control box, a battery, and thelike.

In a configuration example illustrated in FIG. 72A, in the same manneras in a general vehicle, a single main battery 2025-1 and an alternator2025-2 are connected to the vicinity of an end of a wire harness 2025-3.Various parts of the wire harness 2025-3 are connected to accessoriessuch as electronic control units (ECUs) 2025-4 and 2025-5, and anelectric motor 2025-6.

In the configuration as illustrated in FIG. 72A, an apparatus such asthe alternator 2025-2 or the electric motor 2025-6 is a sourcegenerating noise, and thus there is a probability that electromagneticnoise generated therefrom has an adverse effect on the electroniccontrol units 2025-4 and 2025-5 or the like located in the vicinitythereof.

Therefore, the following countermeasures are taken in order to reducethe influence of noise. In other words, a plurality of batteries areprepared and disposed in a distribution manner in a backbone atpositions close to the noise sources. Consequently, the battery easilyabsorbs generated noise. It is possible to prevent sneaking of noiseinto each electronic control unit. The noise problem can be solved toregardless of locations on the backbone where noise sources andapparatuses which are easily influenced by noise are connected.

In the configuration example illustrated in FIG. 72B, in addition to themain battery 2025-1, sub-batteries 2025-1B and 2025-1C are connected tothe backbone of the wire harness 2025-3 in a distribution manner.Therefore, noise generated from the electric motor 2025-6 which is anoise source is absorbed by the sub-batteries 2025-1B and 2025-1Cconnected in the vicinity thereof.

The electronic control units 2025-4 and 2025-5 which are easilyinfluenced by noise are disposed at positions farther away from thenoise source than the sub-batteries 2025-1B and 2025-1C, and are thushardly influenced by noise.

In the configuration example illustrated in FIG. 72C, in addition to themain battery 2025-1, six sub-batteries 2025-1B, 2025-1C, 2025-1D,2025-1E, 2025-1F and 2025-1G are connected to the backbone of the wireharness 2025-3 in a distribution manner. The sub-battery 2025-1B isconnected to a trunk line 2025-3A between the main battery 2025-1 and acontrol box 2025-7A. The sub-battery 2025-1C is connected to an internalcircuit of the control box 2025-7A.

The sub-battery 2025-1D is connected to a trunk line 2025-3B between twocontrol boxes 2025-7A and 2025-7B. The sub-battery 2025-1E is connectedto an internal circuit of the control box 2025-7B. The sub-battery2025-1F is connected to a trunk line 2025-3C between two control boxes2025-7B and 2025-7C. The sub-battery 2025-1G is connected to an internalcircuit of the control box 2025-7C.

As in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 72C, in a case where aplurality of sub-batteries are connected, each sub-battery may beconnected to any location. Since each sub-battery functions as a noisefilter, a plurality of sub-batteries are connected, and thus performanceof absorbing noise in a power supply line is improved.

<Technique for Noise Countermeasure>

FIGS. 73A, 73B, 73C, 73D and 73E are block diagrams illustratingspecific examples of connection states of a trunk line and one or morebatteries.

In this technique, countermeasures of the following (1), (2) and (3) aretaken.

(1) A battery having a characteristic of absorbing noise is configuredto be connected to any location of a backbone trunk line. (2) In orderto remove the influence of a voltage fluctuation or noise, a lowimpedance routing material is used as a routing material of a backbonetrunk line. (3) A configuration of a backbone trunk line is used incommon, and a battery attachment position can be changed according toconditions of each vehicle.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 73A, control boxes 2026-4A,2026-4B, 2026-4C and 2026-4D are respectively connected to four ends ofa backbone trunk line 2026-3. A main battery 2026-1 is connected to thebackbone trunk line 2026-3 at the position of the control box 2026-4A,and a sub-battery 2026-2 is connected to the backbone trunk line 2026-3at the position of the control box 2026-4D. Even in a case where themain battery 2026-1 and the sub-battery 2026-2 are connected to thebackbone trunk line 2026-3 at any positions of the control boxes2026-4A, 2026-4B, 2026-4C and 2026-4D, the backbone trunk line 2026-3whose configuration is used in common can be used.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 73B, only a main battery 2026-1is connected to a tip end of a backbone trunk line 2026-3 located on thefront side of a vehicle via a control box 2026-4A.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 73C, only a sub-battery 2026-2 isconnected to a rear end of a backbone trunk line 2026-3 located on therear side of a vehicle via a control box 2026-4D.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 73D, a main battery 2026-1 isconnected to a tip end of a backbone trunk line 2026-3 located on thefront side of a vehicle via a control box 2026-4A, and a sub-battery2026-2 is connected to a rear end of a backbone trunk line 2026-3located on the rear side of a vehicle via a control box 2026-4D.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 73E, a sub-battery 2026-2 isdisposed in the vicinity of the center of a vehicle, and the sub-battery2026-2 is directly connected to the center of a backbone trunk line2026-3.

<Technique for Noise Countermeasure>

FIG. 74 is a block diagram illustrating a specific example of aconnection state of a trunk line and a plurality of batteries.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 74, control boxes 2027-2, 2027-3,2027-4 and 2027-5 are respectively connected to four ends of a backbonetrunk line 2027-1. Each of the plurality of control boxes 2027-2,2027-3, 2027-4 and 2027-5 has a small-sized sub-battery (secondarybattery) built therein. Each sub-battery is connected to a power sourceline of the backbone trunk line 2027-1. A main power source such as amain battery (not illustrated) is also connected to the backbone trunkline 2027-1. Therefore, the content shown in the following (1) to (4) isrealized.

(1) A plurality of batteries can be disposed at respective parts of thebackbone trunk line 2027-1 in a distribution manner. Consequently, avoltage fluctuation in a case where a voltage required in a load is highcan be suppressed by supplying a current from each battery.

(2) A plurality of batteries disposed can be normally connected torespective portions of the backbone trunk line 2027-1 in a distributionmanner. Consequently, in a case where regenerative electrical energyappears on the backbone trunk line 2027-1, this energy can beefficiently recovered by a plurality of batteries at the respectiveparts. Therefore, a recovery ratio of regenerative energy is improved.

(3) Since a plurality of batteries are provided, in a case whereabnormality occurs in a main power source such as a main battery, backuppower can be supplied from a plurality of sub-batteries. Such powerbackup control can be automatically performed by using microcomputersprovided in the control boxes 2027-2, 2027-3, 2027-4 and 2027-5.

(4) Since a battery is provided in each area on a vehicle, even in acase where a part of the backbone trunk line 2027-1 is disconnected dueto vehicle crash or the like, source power can be supplied from abattery located in the vicinity of an area in which an accessory isdisposed, and thus a safe power source which does not stop supplyingpower can be implemented.

<Technique for Noise Countermeasure>

FIG. 75 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a power source system in an on-vehicle system.

A device illustrated in FIG. 75 includes an alternator 2028-1, a mainbattery 2028-2, a backbone trunk line 2028-3, a body ground 2028-4,accessories 2028-5A to 2028-5D, and branch line sub-harnesses 2028-6A to2028-6D. The backbone trunk line 2028-3 includes a power source line2028-3 a and a ground (GND) line 2028-3 b. The body ground 2028-4 is aground path using a metal forming a body of a vehicle.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 75, the alternator 2028-1 and themain battery 2028-2 are connected to an upstream side of the backbonetrunk line 2028-3. Respective parts of the backbone trunk line 2028-3are connected to the accessories 2028-5A to 2028-5D via the branch linesub-harnesses 2028-6A to 2028-6D.

Each negative terminal of the alternator 2028-1 and the main battery2028-2 is respectively connected to both of the earth line 2028-3 b ofthe backbone trunk line 2028-3 and the body ground 2028-4. Terminals ona ground side of a power source of the accessories 2028-5A and 2028-5Bare connected to only the earth line 2028-3 b of the backbone trunk line2028-3 via the branch line sub-harnesses 2028-6A and 2028-6B,respectively. Terminals on a ground side of a power source of theaccessories 2028-5C and 2028-5D are connected to only the body ground2028-4 via a dedicated earth line or a casing ground.

A resistance value of a line path in a case of using the body ground2028-4 is very small as, for example, about 0.7 mΩ, but a resistancevalue relatively increases in a case of using the earth line 2028-3 b ofthe backbone trunk line 2028-3.

Since the earth line 2028-3 b of the backbone trunk line 2028-3 has arelatively large resistance value, if a large current flows, a groundpotential fluctuation may occur due to a voltage drop caused by aresistance of the line path. However, if the body ground 2028-4 is used,a resistance value thereof is small, and thus a ground potentialfluctuation scarcely occurs.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 75, since it is assumed that apower source current consumed in the accessories 2028-5A and 2028-5B isrelatively small, the ground terminals thereof are connected to theearth line 2028-3 b of the backbone trunk line 2028-3. In addition,since it is assumed that a power source current consumed in theaccessories 2028-5C and 2028-5D is relatively large, the groundterminals thereof are connected to the body ground 2028-4. In theabove-described connection way, it is possible to reduce a groundpotential fluctuation.

The alternator 2028-1 has a switching circuit such as a DC/DC converterbuilt therein, and thus there is a high probability that noise isgenerated due to switching. However, as illustrated in FIG. 75, thenegative terminal of the alternator 2028-1 is connected to the bodyground 2028-4, and thus generated noise can be absorbed by using themain battery 2028-2 or the like since resistance of a line path issmall.

<Technique for Communicating Between Vehicle and Vehicle Exterior>

FIG. 76A is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of anon-vehicle system, and FIG. 76B is a perspective view illustrating anexample of an exterior of the same on-vehicle system.

The on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 76B includes a plurality ofcontrol boxes 2029-1, a backbone trunk line 2029-4 connecting thecontrol boxes to each other, and a plurality of branch linesub-harnesses 2029-5 connected to the backbone trunk line 2029-4 via thecontrol boxes.

As illustrated in FIG. 76A, accessories 2029-3A and 2029-3B, and thelike are connected to and under the control of the branch linesub-harnesses 2029-5. As specific examples of the accessories 2029-3Aand 2029-3B, for example, an audio device or an electronic control unit(ECU) is connected. As illustrated in FIG. 76B, in this example, a datacommunication module (DCM) 2029-1 a is provided in one of the pluralityof control boxes 2029-1.

In a general vehicle, respective accessories are separately connected tothe DCM so that the accessories of various kinds perform wirelesscommunication with a vehicle exterior. Thus, connection locations ofvarious circuits concentrate on the DCM. If many circuits concentrate,the number of processed electric wires in a wire harness increases,which leads to an increase in a size of a connector, and thusproductivity of the wire harness deteriorates.

Therefore, as in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 76A, the DCM2029-1 a is built in a single control box 2029-1, and the variousaccessories 2029-3A and 2029-3B are connected to the common control box2029-1.

Since the control box 2029-1 illustrated in FIG. 76A is connected to thebackbone trunk line 2029-4, various kinds of accessories disposed atvarious positions on a vehicle are connected to the backbone trunk line2029-4, and thus it is possible to easily use the wireless communicationfunction of the DCM 2029-1 a via the trunk line. Consequently, it ispossible to reduce the number of circuits of a wire harness, and thus toreduce component cost and manufacturing cost of the wire harness.

<Technique Regarding Voltage and Current Consumption in Trunk Line>

FIGS. 77A and 77B are longitudinal sectional views respectivelyillustrating configuration examples of different backbone trunk lines.FIG. 78 is a time chart illustrating an example of a correspondencerelationship between a power source current and a power source voltagein a case where special power source control is performed.

In an on-vehicle system, if current consumption of an accessoryconnected to a wire harness increases, a voltage drop increases and aground potential easily fluctuates in a case where resistance of anearth line is large. A ground terminal of the accessory may float froman earth line. There is a case where a power source voltage supplied toan accessory is reduced due to a voltage drop in a power source line.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, two kinds of power sourcevoltages, for example, +12 V and +48 V are configured to be usedtogether in a common backbone trunk line, and the two kinds of powersource voltages are used depending on situations.

A backbone trunk line 2030-1 illustrated in FIGS. 77A and 77B includestwo power source lines 2030-1 a and 2030-1 b, an earth line 2030-1 c,and a communication line 2030-1 d. In the present embodiment, it ispossible to switch between power source voltages supplied to at leastone of the power source lines 2030-1 a and 2030-1 b. In other words, ina case where the power source voltage of +12 V is selected, asillustrated in FIG. 77A, the power source voltage of +12 V is suppliedto the power source line 2030-1 a or 2030-1 b. In a case where the powersource voltage of +48 V is selected, as illustrated in FIG. 77B, thepower source voltage of +48 V is supplied to the power source line2030-1 a or 2030-1 b.

For example, DC power supplied from a main power source such as a mainbattery is stepped up or down in a control box disposed on the backbonetrunk line 2030-1, and thus switching between +12 V and +48 V can beperformed.

Control is performed by using a microcomputer of the control box, andthus switching between +12 V and +48 V can be automatically performed.For example, if the microcomputer monitors a current required in a loador actual current consumption, automatic switching between voltages canbe performed as in the example illustrated in FIG. 78 depending on themagnitude of the current.

In other words, in a case where current consumption of a load is great,a voltage supplied by the control box is changed from +12 V to +48 V,and thus it is possible to reduce the influence of a decrease in avoltage supplied to the load.

<Technique Regarding Configuration of Trunk Line>

FIGS. 79A, 79B and 79C are longitudinal sectional views respectivelyillustrating configuration examples of different backbone trunk lines.

In a general vehicle, +12 V is used as a power source voltage. However,if current consumption of a load increases, a problem such as a voltagedrop in a wire harness occurs. If an electric wire diameter of the wireharness is increased in order to reduce the voltage drop, the wireharness grows too large, and thus a weight thereof also increases.

Therefore, as a power source voltage handled in a wire harness, +48 V isconfigured to be also used in addition to +12 V.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 79A, a backbone trunk line isformed of four routing materials (electric wires, bus bars, and thelike). Two of the four routing materials are used as a power source lineand an earth (GND) line for +12 V, and the other two remaining routingmaterials are used as a power source line and an earth line for +48 V.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 79B, a backbone trunk line isformed of three routing materials. One of the three routing materials isused as a power source line for +12 V, another one is used as an earth(GND) line, and the remaining one is used as a power source line for +48V.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 79C, a backbone trunk line isformed of two routing materials. One of the two routing materials isused as a common power source line for +12 V or +48 V, and the other oneis used as an earth (GND) line. In a case of using the configurationillustrated in FIG. 79C, for example, voltage switching between +12 Vand +48 V is performed in a control box on the backbone trunk line.

<Technique Regarding Power Saving Control>

For example, if the supply of power to a load having low priority isreduced, or conduction of a load having low priority is temporarilystopped, power consumption of the entire vehicle can be reduced, andthis leads to improvement of power efficiency and miniaturization of abattery. However, if such power saving control is performed at alltimes, a user may not be able to comfortably use a load having lowpriority.

Therefore, a case is assumed in which a normal mode is switched to apower saving mode only when a certain situation occurs, and theabove-described power saving control is performed. Here, it is importanthow to define a determination condition for determining whether or notto switch the normal mode to the power saving mode.

In the present embodiment, past data DA and expectation data DB for oneday from now on are prepared in order to determine the switching fromthe normal mode to the power saving mode. The past data DA is comparedwith the expectation data DB, a today's power use prediction ispresented to a user, and a control device on a vehicle sideautomatically selects the power saving mode.

As a specific example of the past data DA, condition patterns such as aday basis, a season basis, and an environmental condition basis, forexample, weather, temperature, and humidity are taken intoconsideration, and a power use amount for each condition pattern ismeasured, and is generated as data. The data is optimized by using alearning function.

As a specific example of the expectation data DB, there are use amountprediction data of a car air conditioner based on a today's weatherprediction, a user's schedule data registered in a smart phone or thelike, destination information which is input to a car navigation device,and the like. Specific condition patterns are extracted on the basis ofthe specific data, and thus appropriate expectation data DB can beobtained.

<Technique for Preventing Battery Exhaustion>

For example, in a case where a vehicle is parked without being connectedto an external power source, most of the accessories on a vehicle are ina stop state, and power accumulated in a battery is scarcely consumed.However, for example, since some loads such as a theft prevention devicecontinue to consume power even during parking, if a parking state iscontinued for a long period of time, battery exhaustion occurs, and thusthe vehicle cannot be started.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, a control device on the vehicleperforms special control in order to prevent battery exhaustion inadvance. In other words, the control device recognizes a power residualcapacity in a power source such as a main battery, measures a conductioncurrent or a dark current flowing out of the battery, and predicts thenumber of days left until battery exhaustion occurs based on theinformation. In a case where the number of days left is small, thesupply of power from the battery is automatically stopped. The supply ofpower may be controlled to be reduced stepwise.

<Technique Regarding Disconnection Detection>

FIG. 80 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a power source system in an on-vehicle system.

In an on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 80, an alternator 2033-1 anda main battery 2033-2 which are main power sources are connected to atip end side of a backbone trunk line 2033-4, and a sub-battery 2033-2Bis connected to a rear end side of the backbone trunk line 2033-4 via aswitch 2033-5.

A plurality of control boxes 2033-3A, 2033-3B and 2033-3C are connectedto an intermediate portion of the backbone trunk line 2033-4 in adistribution manner at respective positions. A power source line and anearth line are included as constituent elements of the backbone trunkline 2033-4. The power source line of the backbone trunk line 2033-4 isconfigured to be used not only for the supply of power but also forcommunication. In other words, by using the existing power linecommunication (PLC) technique, DC source power and an AC signal forcommunication are transmitted in a state of being superimposed with eachother on the power source line.

Therefore, each of the plurality of control boxes 2033-3A, 2033-3B and2033-3C has an interface for PLC communication built therein, and thusthe plurality of control boxes 2033-3A, 2033-3B and 2033-3C can performPLC communication with each other.

In this configuration, for example, if the backbone trunk line 2033-4between the two control boxes 2033-3A and 2033-3B is disconnected, PLCcommunication cannot be performed between the two control boxes 2033-3Aand 2033-3B. Therefore, in a case where the PLC communication cannot beperformed, the control boxes 2033-3A and 2033-3B can recognizedisconnection of the backbone trunk line 2033-4. Further, a positionwhere the disconnection occurs can be specified. Each of the pluralityof control boxes 2033-3A, 2033-3B and 2033-3C has a short-range wirelesscommunication function so as to perform communication even in a casewhere the backbone trunk line 2033-4 is disconnected.

In a case where the above-described disconnection occurs, power recoverycontrol is performed according to a fail-safe function of any one of thecontrol boxes 2033-3A, 2033-3B and 2033-3C which detected thedisconnection. In other words, if the switch 2033-5 is closed, sourcepower is supplied to the backbone trunk line 2033-4 from both of themain battery 2033-2 and the sub-battery 2033-2B. The switch 2033-5 ismaintained in a closed state. Consequently, power is supplied to eachcircuit from the main battery 2033-2 on the upstream side of thedisconnection position, and power is supplied to each circuit from thesub-battery 2033-2B on the downstream side of the disconnectionposition. In a case where disconnection occurs, PLC communication isstopped, and communication paths between the control boxes 2033-3A,2033-3B and 2033-3C are secured by using wireless communication whosefunction is restricted.

<Technique for Using Communication System in Common>

FIG. 81 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating a configurationexample of a communication cable.

There is a plurality of standards such as CAN or CXPI as standardsrelated to communication on a vehicle. Therefore, there is a probabilitythat communication interfaces based on a plurality of standards may becombined with each other due to a difference between vehiclespecifications, a difference between areas on a vehicle, a differencebetween grades, and the like. Components such as communication cableshaving different configurations for the respective standards are used.Since the configurations are different from each other, components basedon a plurality of standards cannot be used in common.

A communication cable 2034-1 illustrated in FIG. 81 is configured to beable to be used for both of communication based on the CAN standard andcommunication based on the CXPI standard. The communication cable 2034-1is formed of four electric wires including a power source line 2034-1 a,an earth (GND) line 2034-1 b, a high-side communication line 2034-1 c,and a low-side communication line 2034-1 d.

In a case of performing communication based on the CAN standard, both ofthe high-side communication line 2034-1 c and the low-side communicationline 2034-1 d are used, and, in a case of performing communication basedon the CXPI standard, only the high-side communication line 2034-1 c isused. Consequently, the communication cable 2034-1 whose configurationis used in common can be used regardless of whether being connected to acommunication interface based on any one of the CAN and CXPI standards.Through this common use, manufacturing of a wire harness is facilitated,and thus various accessories are also easily post-installed.

A configuration of a switching circuit CB11 for switching between twokinds of interface connections based on CAN and CXPI is illustrated inFIG. 57 as described above.

<Technique for Using Configuration in Common>

FIG. 82 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acommunication system in an on-vehicle system.

For example, in a case where various accessories are connected to andunder the control of the control boxes 2031 to 2033 as illustrated inFIG. 48 via branch line sub-harnesses, it is hard to use a large-sizedcontrol box, and the number of connectors for connection of the branchline sub-harnesses may be restricted. Thus, in a case where a pluralityof accessories are to be connected to a single control box, the numberof connectors may be insufficient. In other words, a width of thecontrol box is small, and thus there is a case where a plurality ofconnectors cannot be provided in the control box.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, a modular connection connector(JC) 2035-1 illustrated in FIG. 82 is prepared. The modular connectionconnector 2035-1 has a configuration similar to that of a table tap, anupstream side thereof is connected to a single branch line sub-harness2035-5, and a connection portion 2035-1 a on a downstream side isprovided with a plurality of connectors for connection of a plurality ofapparatuses.

As illustrated in FIG. 82, the branch line sub-harness 2035-5 of themodular connection connector 2035-1 is connected to a connector of asingle control box 2035-2C as a branch line, for example. As illustratedin FIG. 82, the modular connection connector 2035-1 is provided with twoPHY circuits, a network switch (switch), a gateway (GW), a processingunit, an CAN-FD interface, a CXPI interface, a standard function driver,and the like therein.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 82, one of the PHY circuits ofthe modular connection connector 2035-1 is connected to an apparatus2035-7 of a camera and a sensor system via a communication line 2035-8.Two loads are connected to and under the control of the standardfunction driver.

The connection portion 2035-1 a on the downstream side of the modularconnection connector 2035-1 is provided with a plurality of connectors,and thus a plurality of accessories can be connected thereto asnecessary. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 82, a DCM and an antennamay be connected, or a load 6 may be connected via an electronic controlunit (ECU). Instead of the ECU, a load may also be connected viaconnectors (E connectors) having a simple communication function or anoutput control function.

Another modular connection connector 2035-1 can be connected in seriesto the connection portion 2035-1 a on the downstream side of the modularconnection connector 2035-1, and thus it is possible to increase thenumber of connectable apparatuses as necessary. Constituent elementssuch as an ECU box 2035-3 illustrated in FIG. 82 will be described laterin detail.

<Technique of Incorporating Optical Communication Path in Backbone TrunkLine>

As illustrated in FIG. 57 described above, optical fiber cables are usedas two communication lines L4B and L5B of the backbone trunk line BB_LM,and thus the control box CB has an optical communication function.Consequently, since large-capacity or high-speed communication can beperformed by using the trunk line, it can be used for communication fora high grade vehicle. Specifically, since the maximum communicationspeed of about 10 Gbps can be ensured, it can be applied also to anapplication in which high resolution video data is required to be sentwithout time lag.

<Technique for Handling Optical Signal in Control Box>

A function for handling an optical signal is installed in a control box.For example, as in the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 57, the PHYcircuits CB03 and CB04 are incorporated into the control box CB, so thatan electrical signal can be converted into an optical signal so as to betransmitted, and a received optical signal can be converted into anelectrical signal so as to be subjected to a reception process.

More specifically, as in the control box CB(1) illustrated in FIG. 104,the optical/electrical conversion units 2057-2 and 2057-3, and theelectrical/optical conversion units 2057-10 and 2057-11 are incorporatedtherein, and thus mutual conversion between an optical signal and anelectrical signal can be performed.

<Technique Regarding Connection Form of Communication System Trunk Line>

FIG. 83 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example ofcommunication systems in an on-vehicle system in which the communicationsystems are connected in a ring form. FIG. 84 is a block diagramillustrating a configuration example of communication systems in anon-vehicle system in which the communication systems are connected in astar form.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 83, four control boxes2036-1, 2036-2, 2036-3 and 2036-4 are connected to each other via acommunication trunk line 2036-5 of a backbone, and this connection formis configured in a ring shape.

In other words, a signal transmitted from the control box 2036-1 reachesthe next control box 2036-2 via the communication trunk line 2036-5, andthe signal relayed inside the control box 2036-2 is transmitted from thecontrol box 2036-2 to the communication trunk line 2036-5 and reachesthe next control box 2036-3. Similarly, the signal which is received andrelayed by the control box 2036-3 is transmitted to the communicationtrunk line 2036-5, and reaches the next control box 2036-4. The signalwhich is received and relayed by the control box 2036-4 is transmittedto the communication trunk line 2036-5, and reaches the next control box2036-1. In the above-described way, the signal on the communicationtrunk line 2036-5 is sequentially transmitted while being relayed alongthe ring-shaped path.

Therefore, the same communication function as that of the on-vehiclesystem illustrated in FIG. 53 can be realized. If a path of thecommunication trunk line 2036-5 is duplicated, even in a case whereabnormality occurs in one communication path, a communication path canbe secured by using the remaining normal path, and thus reliability isincreased. A communication speed can be doubled by using the two pathstogether.

On the other hand, in the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 84, fivecontrol boxes 2037-1, 2037-2, 2037-3, 2037-4 and 2037-5 are connected tocommunication trunk lines 2037-5 a and 2037-5 b, and this connectionform is configured in a star shape. In other words, the single controlbox 2037-1 is centered, and the other four control boxes 2037-2 to2037-5 are connected thereto via separate paths.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 84, each communication path isduplicated. For example, the control box 2037-1 and the control box2037-3 are connected to each other via the two communication trunk lines2037-5 a and 2037-5 b which are independent from each other.

Each of the duplicated communication paths may be used separatelydepending on, for example, priority, importance, and a security leveldifference of communication. Specifically, a communication path havinghigh priority is used for communication related to traveling of avehicle, and a communication path having low priority is used for othergeneral communication. In a case where a communication failure occurs,one of duplicated communication paths may be used as a backup path. Asecurity level may be divided into, for example, private and public.

The control box 2037-1 at the center of the star shape selectivelydetermines a transmission destination of a packet to be transmitted nextfrom among the four control boxes 2037-2 to 2037-5, and determines acommunication path along which the packet is to be transmitted of thecommunication paths of two systems.

When determining the priority in communication for the on-vehiclesystem, the priority is generally determined in advance for eachcomponent, and thus information handled by, for example, an engine ECUis treated as information having high priority. However, actually, thereare many cases where information having low priority is handled by theengine ECU.

Therefore, an ID indicating importance is given to each piece ofinformation, the importance of information is identified on the basis ofthe ID, and a communication path is automatically selected. In otherwords, information having high importance is transmitted along thecommunication trunk line 2037-5 a of the duplicate communication trunklines of the backbone, and information having low importance istransmitted along the communication trunk line 2037-5 b thereof.

<Technique Using Wireless Communication in System on Vehicle>

FIGS. 85A, 85B and 85C illustrate communication connection statesbetween apparatuses in different situations, in which FIG. 85A is aperspective view, and FIGS. 85B and 85C are block diagrams.

For example, in a case where a communication line is included in abackbone trunk line 2038-1 illustrated in FIG. 85A, wired communicationcan be performed between a plurality of control boxes 2038-2 and 2038-3connected to the backbone trunk line 2038-1. However, the backbone trunkline 2038-1 may be damaged during vehicle crash or the like, and thusthe communication line may be disconnected.

Therefore, in order to provide redundancy to a communication path, ashort-range wireless communication function is installed in each of thecontrol boxes 2038-2 and 2038-3. Consequently, in a configurationillustrated in FIG. 85A, even in a case where the communication linebetween the control boxes 2038-2 and 2038-3 is disconnected, acommunication path between the plurality of control boxes 2038-2 and2038-3 can be secured via a wireless communication line. In a locationwhere disconnection does not occur, a communication path between thecontrol boxes is secured via the communication line of the backbonetrunk line 2038-1.

As illustrated in FIG. 85B, even in a case where a communication linebetween control boxes 2038-4 and 2038-5 is disconnected, and acommunication line between control boxes 2038-5 and 2038-6 is alsodisconnected, communication paths can be secured by using wirelesscommunication. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 85C, communication canbe performed between the control boxes 2038-4 and 2038-5, between thecontrol boxes 2038-5 and 2038-6, and between control boxes 2038-4 and2038-6. Consequently, reliability of a communication path can besecured.

<Technique Regarding Diameter Reduction of Backbone Trunk Line>

FIG. 86 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a power source system in an on-vehicle system.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 86, an alternator(generator: ALT) 2039-1 is connected to one end (for example, a frontside in a vehicle body) of a backbone trunk line 2039-3, and a mainbattery 2039-2 is connected to the other end (for example, a rear sidein the vehicle body) of the backbone trunk line 2039-3.

Loads 2039-4A, 2039-4B and 2039-4C are connected to respective locationsof an intermediate portion of the backbone trunk line 2039-3 viapredetermined branch line sub-harnesses. In FIG. 86, voltages of thebackbone trunk line 2039-3 at the respective connection locations of theloads 2039-4A, 2039-4B and 2039-4C are indicated by V1, V2 and V3.

Typically, a DC output voltage of the alternator 2039-1 is higher than avoltage between terminals of the main battery 2039-2. Therefore, asillustrated in FIG. 86, a relationship of “V1>V2>V3” is satisfied. Here,a case is assumed in which there is no influence of the main battery2039-2, and load currents i1, i2 and i3 respectively flow through theloads 2039-4A, 2039-4B and 2039-4C. In this case, as illustrated in FIG.86, an output current I of the alternator 2039-1 flows toward the rightthrough the backbone trunk line 2039-3, and the current is divided toflow at the connection points of the respective loads. Therefore, asillustrated in FIG. 86, the currents “I”, “I-i1”, and “I-i1-i2” flow atrespective positions on the backbone trunk line 2039-3. Voltage dropsdue to the currents occur on the backbone trunk line 2039-3, and thusthe relationship of “V1>V2>V3” is satisfied. Thus, the influence of thevoltage drop increases at the position of the load 2039-4C which is faraway from the alternator 2039-1. Therefore, it is necessary to make thebackbone trunk line 2039-3 thick in order to reduce a resistance value.In a case where a power source line is routed by using a general wireharness, voltage drops can be reduced by routing a power source linewhich branches into a plurality of electric wires at the root of a powersource to independent loads, but the number of electric wires increases.

However, in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 86, since the mainbattery 2039-2 is connected to the right end side of the backbone trunkline 2039-3, a current can be made to flow through the load 2039-4C fromthe main battery 2039-2. In this case, since a distance between the mainbattery 2039-2 and the load 2039-4C is short, power can be supplied fromthe main battery 2039-2 to the load 2039-4C without causing a largevoltage drop. At least some power required by the load 2039-4C or thelike is supplied from the main battery 2039-2 side, and thus the currentI which flows from the alternator 2039-1 toward the right through thebackbone trunk line 2039-3 can be reduced. Consequently, it is possibleto reduce a voltage drop occurring at each position on the backbonetrunk line 2039-3, and thus to reduce a diameter of the backbone trunkline 2039-3.

Even in a case where power is supplied to a load requiring a largecurrent from both of the alternator 2039-1 and the main battery 2039-2,it is possible to prevent concentration of the current on the samelocation on the backbone trunk line 2039-3 since a current from thealternator 2039-1 and a current from the main battery 2039-2 passthrough different locations. As a result, the maximum rated value of acurrent flowing through each portion of the backbone trunk line 2039-3is reduced, and thus it is possible to reduce a diameter of a bus bar orthe like of a power source line of the backbone trunk line 2039-3.

<Technique Regarding Arrangement Form of a Plurality of Loads>

FIG. 87 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a power source system in an on-vehicle system.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 87, a backbone trunk line2040-3 is linearly routed from an engine compartment (engine room)region 2040-2 of a vehicle body to a vehicle interior region 2040-1. Thebackbone trunk line 2040-3 is connected to an alternator (ALT) 2040-4which is a main power source, and a power source 2040-5 formed of a mainbattery.

Various kinds of loads 2040-6A, 2040-6B, 2040-6C and 2040-6D on avehicle to are connected to respective portions on the backbone trunkline 2040-3 via predetermined branch line sub-harnesses.

In this example, the load 2040-6A consumes large power. The load 2040-6Bconsumes small power, such as an ECU, a switch, a sensor, or anillumination. The load 2040-6C consumes intermediate power, such as alamp, or an electric motor provided in a body system. The load 2040-6Dconsumes large power, such as an electric motor provided in a chassissystem.

As illustrated in FIG. 87, in this configuration, the small-power load2040-6B is connected to a position close to the power source 2040-5, andthe large-power load 2040-6D is connected to a position far away fromthe power source 2040-5. Each load is connected on the basis of thispositional relationship, and thus it is possible to reduce a voltagedrop at an end of the backbone trunk line 2040-3.

In other words, as illustrated in FIG. 87, if currents flowing throughthe loads 2040-6A, 2040-6D, 2040-6C and 2040-6B are respectivelyindicated by i1, i2, i3 and i4, a relationship of “i2>i3>i4” isestablished. As illustrated in FIG. 87, if voltage drops on the backbonetrunk line 2040-3 at respective sections of the loads 2040-6D, 2040-6Cand 2040-6B, and the power source are respectively indicated by ΔV2, ΔV3and ΔV4, a relationship of “ΔV2>ΔV3>ΔV4” is established.

<Technique Regarding Prevention of Illegal Apparatus Connection>

In a case where versatile connection ports for connection of variousapparatuses, for example, connection ports based on a USB standard arepresent in the above-described control box CB or the like more thannecessary, an illegal apparatus may be connected to an unoccupied portwhich is not used among the connection ports. For example, a third partymay intrude into a vehicle when a user of the vehicle does not awarethereof, and connects an illegal apparatus to an unoccupied port.

Therefore, a function of preventing an intruder from connecting anillegal apparatus to an unoccupied port is provided. Specifically, anintrusion sensor is mounted on a vehicle, and an action is taken so thatan illegally connected apparatus is to not operated under the control ofa microcomputer provided in the control box CB or the like when theintrusion is detected. In other words, the microcomputer performscontrol so that a power source and a communication line corresponding toan unoccupied port are automatically interrupted.

The microcomputer can identify whether a port is in use or is anunoccupied port, for example, by monitoring a conduction current foreach port. Connection verification of each connection port is performedwhenever an ignition switch of a vehicle is turned on, and thus it ispossible to identify whether or not the port is in use.

<Technique Regarding Backup and Fuse of Power Source>

FIG. 88 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a backup power source circuit.

A backup power source circuit 2041-1 illustrated in FIG. 88 is providedin the control box CB, and may be used to supply power to most kinds ofaccessories. As illustrated in FIG. 88, the circuit is provided with amain power source line 2041-2, a sub-power source line 2041-3, twoswitching elements 2041-5, two diodes 2041-6, a power source outputportion 2041-7, and an earth line 2041-9. The power source outputportion 2041-7 is connected to a part of a connector 2041-8 of thecontrol box CB provided for connection of a predetermined branch linesub-harness.

The connector 2041-8 is provided with four terminals 2041-8 a, 2041-8 b,2041-8 c and 2041-8 d. The terminals 2041-8 a and 2041-8 d arerespectively connected to an earth (GND) line and a power source line ofthe power source output portion 2041-7. The terminals 2041-8 b and2041-8 c are connected to two communication lines. The respective sizesof the terminals 2041-8 a, 2041-8 b, 2041-8 c and 2041-8 d are assumedto be 1.5, 0.5, 0.5, and 1.5.

DC power from a main battery or the like of a vehicle is supplied to themain power source line 2041-2 of the backup power source circuit 2041-1via a backbone trunk line. DC power from a predetermined sub-battery orthe like is supplied to the sub-power source line 2041-3 via thebackbone trunk line or the like. Power from a high-voltage battery packused to drive a vehicle may be stepped down by a DC/DC converter so asto be supplied to at least one of the sub-power source line and the mainpower source line of the backbone trunk line as sub-power.

A control signal 2041-4 for controlling turning-on and turning-off ofthe two switching elements 2041-5 is supplied from a microcomputer (notillustrated) provided in the control box CB. The microcomputerappropriately controls the control signal 2041-4, and can thus realizefunctions shown in the following (1), (2) and (3).

(1) Electronic fuse function: The magnitude of a load current ismonitored, and a conduction path is automatically disconnected in a casewhere conduction of an excessive current of a predetermined level orhigher is detected. The conduction path is connected again in a casewhere returning of a normal state is detected.

(2) Automatic switching function between main power source and sub-powersource: For example, power is supplied to a load side only from the mainpower source line 2041-2 side during normal times, and switchingautomatically occurs so that power is supplied to the load from thesub-power source line 2041-3 side in a case where a failure or the likeof the main power source line 2041-2 is detected. In other words, thesub-power source line 2041-3 is used as a power supply path for backup.In a case where a load having relatively large power consumption isconnected, power is supplied to the same load from both of the mainpower source line 2041-2 and the sub-power source line 2041-3. Thismakes it possible to compensate for the shortage of power capacity onthe power source side.

(3) Switching function between power source types (+B, +BA, IG, and thelike): The microcomputer automatically switches between the types ofpower which is supplied to the power source output portion 2041-7 fromthe backup power source circuit 2041-1. The types of power include “+B”,“ACC”, “IG”, “+BA”, “IGP”, “IGR”, and the like.

“+B” indicates power of a system to which power is normally suppliedfrom a battery. “ACC” indicates power of a system to which power issupplied in conjunction with turning-on and turning-off of an accessory(ACC) switch of a vehicle. “IG” indicates power of a system to whichpower is supplied in conjunction with turning-on and turning-off of anignition (IG) switch of a vehicle. “+BA” indicates power of a systemwhich is turned on when a user comes close to a vehicle, and to whichpower is supplied. “IGP” indicates power of a system which is turned onwhen ignition switch is brought into an ON state, and then an engine isin a full state, and to which power is supplied. “IGR” indicates asystem which indicates a system supplying necessary power duringemergency, and to which power is supplied when wheels rotate.

The microcomputer performs a process so as to control turning-on andturning-off of each of the two switching elements 2041-5 depending onsituations, and thus the various types of power can be supplied to aload side.

<Technique Regarding Power Source Circuit for Power Load>

FIG. 89 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a configurationexample of a power source circuit for power load.

A power source circuit 2042-1 for power load illustrated in FIG. 89 isprovided in each control box CB, and may be used to supply power to, forexample, a load requiring particularly large source power. Asillustrated in FIG. 89, the circuit is provided with a main power sourceline 2042-2, a switching element 2042-5, a power source output portion2042-6, and an earth line 2042-3. The power source output portion 2042-6is connected to a connector 2042-7 of the control box CB provided forconnection of a predetermined branch line sub-harness.

The connector 2042-7 is provided with two terminals 2042-7 a and 2042-7b. The terminals 2042-7 a and 2042-7 b are respectively connected to anearth (GND) line and a power source line of the power source outputportion 2042-6. The respective sizes of the terminals 2042-7 a and2042-7 b are all assumed to be 4.8. For example, a blower motor of thevehicle is connected to the connector 2042-7 via a predetermined topower cable.

DC power from a main battery or the like of the vehicle is supplied tothe main power source line 2042-2 of the power source circuit 2042-1 forpower load via a backbone trunk line. The earth line 2042-3 is connectedto an earth line of the backbone trunk line or a body ground of thevehicle.

A control signal 2042-4 for controlling turning-on and turning-off ofthe switching element 2042-5 is supplied from a microcomputer (notillustrated) provided in the control box CB. The microcomputerappropriately controls the control signal 2042-4, and can thus realizethe above-described “electronic fuse function”. A timing for supplyingpower to a load can be appropriately controlled. For example, a controltiming may be determined by reflecting a power residual capacity of themain battery, or timing control for power saving may be performed.

<Technique for Coping with a Plurality of Communication Protocols>

FIG. 91 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acontrol box which can switch between a plurality of communicationprotocols.

In a communication system on a vehicle, for example, a plurality ofkinds of communication interfaces suitable for a standard such asController Area Network (CAN) or Clock Extensible Peripheral Interface(CXPI) may be used. If a standard employed by a communication interfaceof a communication partner differs, a communication specification or acommunication protocol differs, and thus communication cannot beperformed between each other. Therefore, a communication system isrequired to be configured so that communication interfaces based on thesame standard are connected to each other.

Thus, not only the communication interface but also different componentsare required to be prepared for respective communication standards withrespect to a connector or a connection cable, and this leads to anincrease in the number of components or an increase in manufacturingcost.

Therefore, control boxes 2044-1 and 2044-2 illustrated in FIG. 91 enablecommon use of a component and automatic switching between protocols inorder to cope with protocols based on standards of both of CAN and CXPI.

The control box 2044-1 illustrated in FIG. 91 has functions of four PHYcircuits, two network switches (Switch), and a gateway (GW), controlledby a microcomputer. The gateway copes with communication protocols basedon both of the CAN-FD standard and the CXPI standard.

A communication interface based on the CAN-FD standard and acommunication interface based on the CXPI standard are built in thecontrol box 2044-1, and four independent connectors are provided in aconnection portion 2044-1 a of the control box 2044-1. One control box2044-1 further includes a wireless PHY circuit.

Each connector of the connection portion 2044-1 a has a switchingcircuit 2044-4 built therein. A CAN connection portion 2044-4 a of theswitching circuit 2044-4 is connected to the communication interfacebased on the CAN-FD standard, and can handle a set of communicationsignals of “+side” and “−side” based on the CAN-FD standard. A CXPIconnection portion 2044-4 b of the switching circuit 2044-4 is connectedto the communication interface based on the CXPI standard, and canhandle a single communication signal based on the CXPI standard. Signalpaths of the CAN connection portion 2044-4 a and the CXPI connectionportion 2044-4 b of the switching circuit 2044-4 are connected to twoterminals of a common connection portion 2044-4 c via internalcontrollable switches. The switches are controlled by the internalgateway (GW).

Each of the control boxes 2044-1 and 2044-2 is provided with a commonconnector including four terminals including the two terminals of thecommon connection portion 2044-4 c, a power source line and an earthline.

A modular cable 2044-5 illustrated in FIG. 91 includes four terminalsfor “GND”, “CAN FD−”, “CAN FD+”, and “power source”, and four electricwires in order to cope with a signal based on the CAN standard. Amodular cable 2044-6 includes four terminals for “GND”, “CXPI”, “GND”,and “power source”, and four electric wires in order to cope with asignal based on the CXPI standard. In other words, the two modularcables 2044-5 and 2044-6 have the same number of terminals and the samenumber of electric wires, and can thus be used as a common component.

The modular cable 2044-5 or the modular cable 2044-6 having the commonconfiguration is connected to the common connector of the control box2044-1, and can thus cope with any communication based on the CAN-FDstandard and the CXPI standard.

Actually, under the control of a microcomputer in the control box2044-1, communication based on the CAN-FD standard is selected in aninitial state, and automatic switching to communication based on theCXPI standard occurs in a case where a communication apparatus based onthe CXPI standard is connected to a partner side. Specifically, when thecommunication apparatus of the partner side is connected via the modularcable 2044-5 or 2044-6, the microcomputer performs signal scanning so asto recognize a request from the partner. In a case where communicationcannot be established by using a protocol based on the CAN standard,communication is tried to be established through switching to a protocolbased on the CXPI standard. At this time, the microcomputer changes aswitch of the switching circuit 2044-4 so as to switch signal paths inthe switching circuit 2044-4, and can thus change a form of a signalflowing through each terminal of the connector to the CXPI form (singlesignal line) from the CAN form (two signal lines).

<Technique Regarding Arrangement of Control Box and ECU>

FIG. 90 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of anon-vehicle system.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 90, two control boxes2043-1 and 2043-2 are connected to each other via a backbone trunk line2043-4. An ECU box 2043-3 is connected to the control box 2043-1 via abackbone trunk line 2043-5.

An electronic control unit (ECU) for controlling an air conditioner anda plurality of other ECUs are built in the ECU box 2043-3. The controlbox 2043-1 is provided in, for example, an instrument panel portion of avehicle.

An ECU 2043-6 and a connector 2043-7 are connected to and under thecontrol of the control box 2043-2 via two modular cables 2043-8 whichare branch lines. A PTC heater 2043-9 is also connected to and under thecontrol of the control box 2043-2 via another branch line. A pluralityof loads 2043-10 are connected to output terminals of the ECU 2043-6.The connector 2043-7 has an electronic circuit built therein, and has afunction of communicating with the control box 2043-2 and a function ofcontrolling conduction of a load.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 90, in a case where an airconditioner as the load 2043-10 is connected to and under the control ofthe control box 2043-2, a microcomputer in the control box 2043-2 mayperform control of the air conditioner instead of an ECU for controllingthe air conditioner in the ECU box 2043-3. In this case, the ECU forcontrolling the air conditioner in the ECU box 2043-3 may be omitted.

On the other hand, in the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 82, thecontrol box 2035-2A is connected to the ECU box 2035-3 via thecommunication line 2035-6 based on the Ethernet (registered trademark)standard. For example, ten ECUs which are independent from each othercan be built in the ECU box 2035-3. Therefore, a plurality of ECUs canbe disposed at a single location in a concentration manner. Variousloads may be connected to and under the control of each ECU in the ECUbox 2035-3.

The ECU box 2035-3 is provided with a communication interface based onthe CAN-FD standard, a gateway (GW), and a PHY circuit. Therefore, eachECU in the ECU box 2035-3 can communicate with various apparatuses onthe vehicle via the control boxes 2035-2A to 2035-2E. Each ECU built inthe ECU box 2035-3 is attachable and detachable, and may be replaced asnecessary. It is also possible to change the mounting position of eachECU.

<Technique Regarding Duplication of Communication System>

FIGS. 93A and 93B are block diagrams illustrating a configurationexample of an on-vehicle system.

In a case where a failure occurs, or a communication line isdisconnected due to vehicle crash, communication cannot be performedbetween apparatuses. However, for example, in a case where a techniquesuch as automatic driving is installed in a vehicle, high reliability isrequired in a communication system, and thus consideration is requiredfor a communication path not to be disconnected.

Therefore, in the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIGS. 93A and 93B, apower supply path and a communication path are configured to beduplicated for at least a location having high importance in order toincrease reliability.

In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 93A, a control box 2046-1 and acontrol box 2046-2 are connected to each other via a backbone trunk line2046-4, and the control box 2046-1 and a control box 2046-3 areconnected to each other via a backbone trunk line 2046-5. Although notillustrated in FIG. 93, each of the backbone trunk lines 2046-4 and2046-5 includes a power source line, an earth line, and a communicationline, and each of the power source line and the communication line hasline paths of two systems which are independent from each other.

A control unit 2046-6 is connected to and under the control of thecontrol box 2046-2 via a module cable 2046-7 which is a branch line. Thecontrol unit 2046-6 is connected to and under the control of the controlbox 2046-3 via a module cable 2046-8 which is a branch line. A pluralityof loads 2046-9 are connected to and under the control of the controlunit 2046-6 via a branch line sub-harness 2046-10.

Each of the module cables 2046-7 and 2046-8 includes power source linesof two systems, an earth line, and communication lines of two systems.The earth line may be formed of two systems.

For example, a communication path and a power supply path in a casewhere an instruction is given to the control unit 2046-6 from thecontrol box 2046-1 via the backbone trunk line 2046-4, the control box2046-2, and the module cable 2046-7 are duplicated. A communication pathand a power supply path in a case where an instruction is given to thecontrol unit 2046-6 from the control box 2046-1 via the backbone trunkline 2046-5, the control box 2046-3, and the module cable 2046-8 areduplicated.

Thus, for example, even in a case where a communication line of onesystem in one of the backbone trunk lines 2046-4 and 2046-5 or one ofthe module cables 2046-7 and 2046-8 is disconnected, a communicationpath can be secured by using a communication line of the other systemwhich is not disconnected.

For example, even in a case where communication lines of two systems inthe backbone trunk line 2046-4 or the module cable 2046-7 aresimultaneously disconnected, switching to the communication path passingthrough the backbone trunk line 2046-5, the control box 2046-3, and themodule cable 2046-8 from the control box 2046-1 occurs, and thus acommunication path required to control the control unit 2046-6 can besecured.

On the other hand, in the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 93B, acentral control box 2046-12 is connected to a plurality of control boxes2046-11, 2046-13, 2046-14 and 2046-15 via independent backbone trunklines 2046-17, 2046-16 and 2046-18. A control unit or a load isconnected to and under the control of each control box via a branchline.

For example, a control unit 2046-21A is connected to the central controlbox 2046-12 via the branch line 2046-22, and the control unit 2046-21Ais connected to the control box 2046-14 via a branch line 2046-23.

Therefore, in a case where the control box 2046-12 gives an instructionto the control unit 2046-21A, either one of a communication path passingthrough the branch line 2046-22 and a communication path passing throughthe backbone trunk line 2046-18, the control box 2046-14, and the branchline 2046-23 may be used. In other words, even if one of the pluralityof paths is disconnected, a necessary communication path can be securedby using remaining normal communication lines.

<Technique Regarding Connection Form of Modularized Apparatus>

FIG. 94 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acircuit module provided in a driver seat door panel.

A circuit module 2047-4 illustrated in FIG. 94 is disposed in a driverseat door panel, and is connected to a control box 2047-1 provided on avehicle body side via branch line sub-harnesses 2047-2 and 2047-3. Thebranch line sub-harnesses 2047-2 and 2047-3 are routed so as topenetrate through a partition wall at a location where the vehicle bodyis connected to the driver seat door.

A communication line of the branch line sub-harness 2047-2 is connectedto a standard communication interface (CXPI or the like), and acommunication line of the branch line sub-harness 2047-3 is connected toa communication interface based on Ethernet (registered trademark).

The circuit module 2047-4 is provided with not only a modular connectionconnector 2047-8 but also a plurality of electronic control units (ECUs)2047-10 and 2047-11 and a side television 2047-9 as accessories havingstandard interfaces. An antenna 2047-5, a speaker 2047-6, a sensor2047-7, a versatile communication connector 2047-12, and the like arealso provided.

The modular connection connector 2047-8 has three standard communicationinterfaces based on the CXPI standard and a standard (STD) drive circuitbuilt therein. Each standard communication interface in the modularconnection connector 2047-8 has a function of allowing a received signalto just pass therethrough and sending the signal to an output side.

The electronic control units 2047-10 and 2047-11 and the versatilecommunication connector 2047-12 are respectively connected to thestandard communication interfaces of the modular connection connector2047-8. The versatile communication connector 2047-12 has an electroniccircuit built therein, and can perform communication, control on a load,and inputting of a signal by using the electronic circuit. Outputterminals of the standard drive circuit of the modular connectionconnector 2047-8 are connected to a door lock motor 2047-17, and variousillumination apparatuses 2047-18 in the door.

The electronic control unit 2047-10 includes a microcomputer performinga process required to control a power window, and an output terminalthereof is connected to an electric motor (P/W MTR) of the power window.

The electronic control unit 2047-11 includes a microcomputer having afunction of controlling an outer mirror provided in the door. Outputterminals of the electronic control unit 2047-11 are connected toconstituent elements 2047-14 and 2047-15 of the mirror. Output terminalsof the versatile communication connector 2047-12 are connected to amirror heater 2047-16, and a memory switch 2047-19 and the like.

FIG. 95 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acircuit module provided in a passenger seat door panel.

A circuit module 2048-4 illustrated in FIG. 95 is disposed in apassenger seat door panel, and is connected to a control box 2048-1provided on a vehicle body side via branch line sub-harnesses 2048-2 and2048-3. The branch line sub-harnesses 2048-2 and 2048-3 are routed so asto penetrate through a partition wall at a location where the vehiclebody is connected to the passenger seat door.

A communication line of the branch line sub-harness 2048-2 is connectedto a standard communication interface (CXPI or the like), and acommunication line of the branch line sub-harness 2048-3 is connected toa communication interface based on Ethernet (registered trademark).

The circuit module 2048-4 is provided with not only a modular connectionconnector 2048-8 but also a plurality of electronic control units (ECUs)2048-10 and 2048-11 and a side television 2048-9 as accessories havingstandard interfaces. An antenna 2048-5, a speaker 2048-6, a sensor2048-7, a versatile communication connector 2048-12, and the like arealso provided.

The modular connection connector 2048-8 has three standard communicationinterfaces based on the CXPI standard and a standard (STD) drive circuitbuilt therein. The electronic control units 2048-10 and 2048-11 and theversatile communication connector 2048-12 are respectively connected tothe standard communication interfaces of the modular connectionconnector 2048-8. The versatile communication connector 2048-12 has anelectronic circuit built therein, and can perform communication, controlon a load, and inputting of a signal by using the electronic circuit.Output terminals of the standard drive circuit of the modular connectionconnector 2048-8 are connected to a door lock motor 2048-17, and variousillumination apparatuses 2048-18 in the door.

The electronic control unit 2048-10 includes a microcomputer performinga process required to control a power window, and an output terminalthereof is connected to an electric motor (P/W MTR) of the power window.

The electronic control unit 2048-11 includes a microcomputer having afunction of controlling an outer mirror provided in the door. Outputterminals of the electronic control unit 2048-11 are connected toconstituent elements 2048-14 and 2048-15 of the mirror. Output terminalsof the versatile communication connector 2048-12 are connected to amirror heater 2048-16, and a lamp 2048-19.

FIG. 96 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acircuit module provided in a rear seat door panel. The left and rightrear seat door panels have the same configuration.

A circuit module 2049-3 illustrated in FIG. 96 is disposed in a rearseat door panel (each of the left and right door panels), and isconnected to a control box 2049-1 provided on a vehicle body side via abranch line sub-harness 2049-2. The branch line sub-harness 2049-2 isrouted so as to penetrate through a partition wall at a location wherethe vehicle body is connected to the rear seat door. A communicationline of the branch line sub-harness 2049-2 is connected to a standardcommunication interface (CXPI or the like).

The circuit module 2049-3 is provided with not only a modular connectionconnector 2049-4 but also an electronic control unit (ECU) 2049-5 andthe like as accessories having standard interfaces. The modularconnection connector 2049-4 has three standard communication interfacesbased on the CXPI standard and a standard (STD) drive circuit builttherein. The electronic control unit 2049-5 is connected to the standardcommunication interfaces of the modular connection connector 2049-4.

Output terminals of the standard drive circuit of the modular connectionconnector 2049-4 are connected to a door lock motor 2049-7, and variousillumination apparatuses 2049-8, 2049-9 and 2049-10 in the door.

The electronic control unit 2049-5 includes a microcomputer performing aprocess required to control a power window, and an output terminalthereof is connected to an electric motor (P/W MTR) 2049-6 of the powerwindow.

FIG. 97 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acircuit module provided in a vehicle's roof.

A circuit module 2050-3 illustrated in FIG. 97 is disposed in a roofportion of a vehicle body, and is connected to a control box 2050-1provided on a vehicle interior side via a branch line sub-harness2050-2. The branch line sub-harness 2050-2 is routed so as to penetratethrough a partition wall at a location where the vehicle body isconnected to the roof. A communication line of the branch linesub-harness 2050-2 is connected to a standard communication interface(CXPI or the like).

The circuit module 2050-3 is provided with not only a modular connectionconnector 2050-4 but also an electronic control unit (ECU) 2050-6, arain sensor 2050-14 and the like as accessories having standardinterfaces. A microphone 2050-5, a versatile communication connector2050-7, and the like are also provided.

The modular connection connector 2050-4 has three standard communicationinterfaces based on the CXPI standard and a standard (STD) drive circuitbuilt therein. Each standard communication interface in the modularconnection connector 2050-4 has a function of allowing a received signalto just pass therethrough and sending the signal to an output side.

The electronic control unit 2050-6, the rain sensor 2050-14, and theversatile communication connector 2050-7 are respectively connected tothe standard communication interfaces of the modular connectionconnector 2050-4. The versatile communication connector 2050-7 has anelectronic circuit built therein, and can perform communication, controlon a load, and inputting of a signal by using the electronic circuit.Output terminals of the standard drive circuit of the modular connectionconnector 2050-4 are connected to various lamp loads 2050-12 and2050-13.

The electronic control unit 2050-6 includes a microcomputer performing aprocess required for drive control such as closing and opening of asliding roof, and output terminals thereof are connected to a slidingroof switch 2050-8 and a drive electric motor 2050-9. Output terminalsof the versatile communication connector 2050-7 are connected to aMayday switch 2050-10 and an inner rearview mirror 2050-11.

FIG. 98 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of asmart connection connector.

A smart connection connector 2051-3 illustrated in FIG. 98 is an elementproviding a joint function which can be used at various locations on avehicle in a versatile manner, and may be connected to a desired controlbox via a branch line sub-harness 2051-2 and a standard interface2051-1.

As illustrated in FIG. 98, an output side connector 2051-7 of the smartconnection connector 2051-3 may be connected to a door lock motor switch2051-8, various illumination apparatuses 2051-9, 2051-10 and 2051-11, adoor lock motor 2051-12, and the like.

A control circuit 2051-4 is provided in the smart connection connector2051-3. The control circuit 2051-4 includes a standard communicationinterface 2051-4 a, a power source circuit 2051-4 b, a microcomputer(CPU) 2051-4 c, a signal processing circuit (STRB) 2051-4 d, an inputcircuit 2051-4 e, an intelligent power device (IPD) 2051-4 f, and amotor driver 2051-4 g.

The output side connector 2051-7 of the smart connection connector2051-3 is provided with terminals for outputting various types of sourcepower, a communication terminal, a terminal for a signal to be input tothe input circuit 2051-4 e, a terminal for connection of a load drivenby the IPD 2051-4 f, and a terminal for connection of an electric motor.

Source power output from the output side connector 2051-7 is used tooperate an electronic fuse or to switch between the types of power (+B,+BA, IG, and the like) through processing in the microcomputer 2051-4 c.In order to perform this control, switching elements are connectedbetween respective terminals of the output side connector 2051-7 and aninput side power source line. Turning-on and turning-off of theswitching elements are controlled by the microcomputer 2051-4 c.

<Technique for Adding Function by Adding New Unit>

In the present embodiment, control of a system side is assumed in a casewhere a function is added by connecting a new unit to a common interfaceof an on-vehicle system. For example, in the system illustrated in FIG.49, a case is assumed in which a new accessory AE is connected to theconnector of the connection portion Cnx of each control box CB via thebranch line sub-harness LS. However, the newly connected unit cannot besaid to be a legal unit, and thus it is necessary to perform specialcontrol in order to ensure the security of the entire system.

Although not illustrated, specific examples of procedures performed inthis case are as follows.

Step S50: In a dealer or the like of a vehicle, a worker or the likeconnects a corresponding new unit (accessory) to the connection portionCnx of the control box CB via the branch line sub-harness LS.

Step S51: In the dealer or the like of the vehicle, the worker or thelike connects a diagnosis tool (for example, “TaSCAN”) dedicated to avehicle, provided by a vehicle manufacturer or the like to a system onthe vehicle, and executes a command for scanning in order to diagnosethe connected unit.

Step S52: The microcomputer of the control box CB starts a scanningprocess in response to the command from the diagnosis tool. First, poweris supplied to a first standard interface which is initially connectedto the connection portion Cnx, and the microcomputer automaticallyidentifies whether or not the CAN standard communication can beperformed with respect to communication using the standard interface.

Step S53: In a case where the CAN standard communication is notestablished in step S52, the microcomputer switches a communicationspecification to CXPI from CAN, and identifies whether or not the CXPIstandard communication can be performed.

Step S54: In a case where neither of the CAN standard communication andthe CXPI standard communication is established in steps S52 and S53, themicrocomputer stops the supply of power to the standard interface.

Step S55: In a case where the CAN or CXPI standard communication isestablished in steps S52 and S53, communication is performed among thediagnosis tool, the microcomputer of the control box CB, and theaccessory (the new unit or the like) which is a connection destination,and the diagnosis tool performs a predetermined process so as to performan authentication process on the accessory. The content of theauthentication process is standardized in advance.

Step S56: In a case where the authentication is successful in step S55,the microcomputer of the control box CB registers conditions ofsupplying source power to the accessory based on the standard interfacein a storage device of the microcomputer. For example, it isautomatically identified that the kind of power to be supplied is anyone of “+B, +BA, IG, and IGP” on the basis of the kind of the accessoryproved through the authentication, or ID information, and theidentification result is registered.

Step S57: The processes in steps S52 to S56 are sequentially performedon second and subsequent standard interfaces repeatedly.

Step S58: After the scanning process on all of the standard interfacesis completed, the diagnosis tool or the microcomputer of the control boxCB displays a message or the like so that a user (or a worker) canconfirm addition of a function with respect to the added new unit. Thisdisplay is performed by using, for example, a display portion of themeter unit on the vehicle.

Step S59: The microcomputer of the control box CB stores, in the storagedevice thereof, information for transfer to the function confirmed bythe user in step S58 to an environment in which the function can beactually used.

Therefore, for example, even if an illegal apparatus which is notallowed by a vehicle manufacturer or the like is tried to be connectedto the on-vehicle system by a user or a third party, the illegalapparatus cannot perform communication with the legal on-vehicle system,and cannot be supplied with power via a communication connector either,and thus the illegal apparatus cannot operate at all.

<Technique Regarding Connection Form of Communication System inOn-Vehicle System>

FIGS. 99A and 99B and FIG. 100 are block diagrams respectivelyillustrating configuration examples of communication systems indifferent on-vehicle systems.

An on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 99A includes communicationnetworks V2-CAN, V1-CAN, and MS-CAN of three systems, which areconnected to each other via a gateway. The communication network V2-CANis allocated to apparatuses of an engine compartment (engine room), thecommunication network V1-CAN is allocated to apparatuses (including ameter unit) of an engine system, and the communication network MS-CAN isallocated to apparatuses (doors, power seats, and the like) of a bodysystem.

The communication network MS-CAN is disposed in the entire vehicle as adomain, and each of the communication networks V1-CAN and V2-CAN isdivided for area on a vehicle body. Various accessories are connected toand under the control of each of the communication networks MS-CAN,V1-CAN and V2-CAN.

In an on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 99B, a plurality ofcommunication networks respectively in charge of a plurality of domainswhich are respectively allocated to a driving assistance system, a powertrain system, a chassis system, a body system, and a multimedia systemare connected to each other. Each communication network employs acommunication interface based on the CAN standard. These sets ofcommunication networks are routed to extend in parallel to each other inthe entire region of the vehicle.

In an on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 100, a domain is divided foreach area such as an “area 1”, an “area 2”, an “area 3”, an “area 4”,and an “area 5”, and a communication network is formed in each area. Anoptical communication network is used for a trunk line connecting therespective areas to each other in order to enable high-speedcommunication.

By using the optical communication network, high-speed communication of,for example, about 1 Gbps can be performed between the areas. Acommunication capacity of the optical communication network isdistributed to a plurality of systems in the communication network ofeach area, so as to be allocated to communication of variousaccessories. The priority of communication is determined on the basis ofspecific ID information allocated to each of apparatuses such asaccessories in advance.

<Technique Regarding Internal Configuration of Control Box>

FIG. 92 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of acontrol box.

An on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 92 includes five control boxes2045-1, 2045-2, 2045-3, 2045-4 and 2045-5 connected to each other viabackbone trunk lines 2045-7 and 2045-8, and an ECU box 2045-6.

As illustrated in FIG. 92, the backbone trunk line 2045-7 includes powersource lines of two systems and an earth line. The backbone trunk line2045-8 includes communication lines of two systems.

The control box 2045-1 is provided with power source portions 2045-10 oftwo systems, two sets of network (Ethernet: registered trademark) hubs2045-11 and 2045-12, a communication control unit 2045-13 of a gateway(GW), a WiFi communication module 2045-14, a network (Ethernet:registered trademark) hub 2045-15, a power control unit 2045-16,switching circuits 2045-17A, 2045-17B and 2045-17C, and connectors2045-21, 2045-22, 2045-23 and 2045-24.

Of the communication lines of two systems included in the backbone trunkline 2045-8, one communication line is connected to the network hub2045-11, and the other communication line is connected to the networkhub 2045-12. The communication system of the network hub 2045-11 side isallocated for use in a power train system and a chassis system of avehicle, and the communication system of the network hub 2045-12 side isallocated for use in a body system and a multimedia system of thevehicle.

The communication control unit 2045-13 of the gateway (GW) is afunctional unit realized under the control of a microcomputer (notillustrated) provided in the control box 2045-1, and has the followingfunctions.

(1) Interconnection between a plurality of networks based on differentstandards such as protocols

(2) Reception of related packet

(3) Transmission of signal

(4) Classification of communication of a control system andcommunication of a driving assistance system

(5) Bypass communication of high-rank information

The WiFi communication module 2045-14 is used for wirelessly connectingthe control box 2045-1 to other apparatuses mounted on the vehicle or anapparatus carried by a user.

The network hub 2045-15 has a function of dividing one communicationpath from the communication control unit 2045-13 for connection to anyone of communication paths of the connectors 2045-21, 2045-22 and2045-23.

The power control unit 2045-16 is a functional portion realized underthe control of the microcomputer (not illustrated) provided in thecontrol box 2045-1, and has source power control functions as describedbelow.

(1) Electronic fuse function of blocking path when overcurrent flows;

(2) Function of controlling the kinds of power such as “+B, +BA, IGP,and IGR”;

(3) Function of backing up power source of an important system byproperly using power source lines of two systems when abnormality occursin power source; and

(4) Stop & start (S & S) switching function.

Each of the switching circuits 2045-17A, 2045-17B and 2045-17C includestwo controllable switching elements for respectively connecting thepower source lines of two systems to power source lines of theconnectors 2045-21, 2045-22 and 2045-23. The switching elements areseparately controlled to be turned on and off according to controlsignals output from the microcomputer which realizes each function ofthe power control unit 2045-16.

Each of the connectors 2045-21, 2045-22 and 2045-23 includes fourterminals such as a power source line terminal, an earth line terminal,and two communication line terminals. Various kinds of accessories canbe connected to and under the control of the connectors 2045-21, 2045-22and 2045-23 via predetermined branch line sub-harnesses.

As mentioned above, according to the vehicular circuit body of thepresent invention, it is possible to easily add a new electric wire bysimplifying a structure for electrical connection between variouselectric components and a power source on a vehicle and between theelectric components, particularly, a configuration of a trunk lineportion.

<Configuration Example of Control Box>

FIG. 105 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of theinside of a control box. A configuration illustrated in FIG. 105 is amodification example of the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 57 and58, and, in FIG. 105, the common constituent elements are given the samereference numerals. The common constituent elements described above willnot be described below.

The control box CB illustrated in FIG. 105 is connected to a backbonetrunk line BB_LM2. The backbone trunk line BB_LM2 is configured by apower source line L1 and an earth line L3 of one system, andcommunication lines L4B and LSB. Each of the power source line L1 andthe earth line L3 is a long conductor such as a bus bar, and thecommunication lines L4B and L5B are optical fibers.

The control box CB illustrated in FIG. 105 includes a power sourcecontrol unit 2101 and a communication control unit 2102. Power sourceconnectors CP11 and CP12 of two systems and communication portconnectors CP13 to CP20 of eight systems are provided on an output sideof the control box CB.

The communication control unit 2102 can provide communication functionsrespectively corresponding to two kinds of communication standardsCAN_FD and CXPI to each of the communication port connectors CP13 toCP18 of six systems. Actually, to two kinds of communication standardsCAN_FD and CXPI may be selectively used in accordance with aspecification of an apparatus connected to each connector. Thecommunication control unit 2102 can provide a communication functionbased on the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard to each of thecommunication port connectors CP19 and CP20 of two systems. Thecommunication control unit 2102 can also provide an opticalcommunication function based on the Ethernet (Trademark) standard to thecommunication lines L4B and L5B of the backbone trunk line BB_LM2.

Each of the power source connectors CP11 and CP12 is provided with twoterminals for the supply of power, that is, a power source terminal anda ground terminal. The two terminals of each of the power sourceconnectors CP11 and CP12 have a sufficiently large sectional area sothat relatively large power can be supplied. Each of the communicationport connectors CP13 to CP20 of eight systems is provided with a powersource terminal and a ground terminal for the supply of power and twoterminals for communication.

The power source control unit 2101 includes a gateway control circuit2111, a power source circuit 2112, a voltage monitoring circuit 2113, abattery reverse-connection protection circuit 2114, a control circuitmonitor 2115, and a power source output circuit portion 2116.

The gateway control circuit 2111 includes an electrical circuit mainlyformed of a microcomputer, and realizes various control functions whichare necessary as a gateway in the control box CB under the control ofthe microcomputer.

The power source circuit 2112 generates stable DC power of 5 V which isrequired to operate a circuit such as the gateway control circuit 2111on the basis of DC power (+12 V) from the power source line L1.

The voltage monitoring circuit 2113 monitors a voltage of the powersource circuit 2112, and generates a signal for resetting an operationof the gateway control circuit 2111 when power is supplied or thevoltage is abnormal. The battery reverse-connection protection circuit2114 has a function of protecting a circuit such as the gateway controlcircuit 2111 in a case where a battery on the vehicle is connected inreverse polarities due to work mistake or the like. The control circuitmonitor 2115 has a function of monitoring an operation error such asrunaway of the microcomputer of the gateway control circuit 2111.

The power source output circuit portion 2116 has ten output circuitswhich can individually control ON and OFF of the supply of source powerto each of power source terminals of ten systems corresponding to thepower source connectors CP11 and CP12 and the communication portconnectors CP13 to CP20. These output circuits supply source power fromthe power source line L1 to the respective power source terminals inresponse to control signals output from the gateway control circuit2111. Therefore, it is possible to supply source power to only anecessary system in accordance with apparatuses which are actuallyconnected to the power source connectors CP11 and CP12 and thecommunication port connectors CP13 to CP20.

<Function for Supplying Power to Apparatus Required by User During PowerSupply Failure>

FIG. 106 illustrates a specific example of a screen displayed during apower supply failure. FIG. 107 illustrates an example of a process inwhich a user selects an apparatus to be used during a power supplyfailure.

In a vehicle, there is a probability that a power supply failure mayoccur in various situations. For example, there are cases where stoppageof output from a power generation system, a failure in a main battery, afailure in a sub-battery, disconnection of a power source line, and thelike occur. In these cases, if the same control as during normal time isperformed, all apparatuses on the vehicle may stop operations, or thewhole of restricted power which can be supplied may be consumed in ashort time.

However, in a case where a power supply failure occurs during travelingof a vehicle, it is necessary to secure source power in order tomaintain functions of a steering system, a braking system, and the likeuntil the vehicle safely stops. It is necessary to secure source powerfor operating an apparatus performing an emergency notification. Forexample, in a case where such a failure occurs in a country road or thelike where there is no street light at midnight, since various lightingfunctions on the vehicle do not operate, it is difficult for othervehicles to see the vehicle, and thus a traffic accident such as rearend collision easily occurs.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, in a case where a certain powersupply failure occurs on the vehicle, necessary power is supplied from asub-battery or the like to apparatuses of the steering system, thebraking system, and the like during traveling of the vehicle at leastuntil the vehicle safely stops. Source power for operating the apparatusperforming an emergency notification is also secured. There is a userselection function for selectively supplying source power remaining onthe vehicle to an apparatus required by a user in a state in which thevehicle has stopped due to a failure.

The on-vehicle system including the control box CB performs a processillustrated in FIG. 107 so as to realize the user selection function. Inthis user selection function, a screen as illustrated in FIG. 106 isdisplayed in order to facilitate a user's input operation. A displayscreen 2200 illustrated in FIG. 106 may be displayed by using, forexample, a display in a meter unit normally provided on the vehicle, ora display disposed at a center console of the vehicle.

In a case of using the display in the meter unit, a control unit(microcomputer) of the meter unit performs communication with a controlunit (for example, the gateway control circuit 2111 in FIG. 105) of thecontrol box CB. The process illustrated in FIG. 107 is performed by anoperation of either one or both of the control unit of the meter unitand the control unit of the control box CB.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 106, a target apparatus list displayportion 2201, a cursor display portion 2202, an operation limit displayportion 2203, an operation guidance display portion 2204, and a residualbattery capacity display portion 2205 are displayed on the displayscreen 2200.

The target apparatus list display portion 2201 is a region in which alist of apparatuses of which ON and OFF of operations can beindividually designated by a user and a current operation state(discrimination between ON and OFF) of each apparatus are displayed. Inthe example illustrated in FIG. 106, head lamps, tail lamps, an airconditioner, an audio/navigation, an ACC socket, and interior lightinglamps are displayed in a list of the apparatuses which can be designatedby the user. Operation states of the head lamps and the tail lamps aredesignated as an “ON” state, and operation states of the airconditioner, the audio/navigation, the ACC socket, and interior lightinglamps are designated as an “OFF” state.

The cursor display portion 2202 indicates a position of an apparatuscurrently selected by the user with a mark simulating a hand from thelist of apparatuses displayed in the target apparatus list displayportion 2201. In the example illustrated in FIG. 106, a display positionof the cursor display portion 2202 indicates that the “tail lamps” areselected as target apparatuses.

The operation limit display portion 2203 indicates a limit of time leftin which an operation of each apparatus can last in the current userdesignation state displayed in the target apparatus list display portion2201. In the example illustrated in FIG. 106, the head lamps and thetail lamps can be operated only for about 35 minutes from this pointwith the residual power source capacity.

The operation guidance display portion 2204 displays operation guidancewith a graphic image simulating operation portions which are to beoperated by the user in order to change designation in the targetapparatus list display portion 2201. In this example, since a case ofusing steering switches disposed in the vicinity of a steering wheel ofthe vehicle is assumed, explanation using an image indicating anexterior of the steering switches and text is displayed in the operationguidance display portion 2204. The steering switches include switchesfor moving a selection position in a vertical direction, and a switchfor alternately switching between ON and OFF of a selected apparatus.

The residual battery capacity display portion 2205 indicates the currentresidual power capacity of a battery in the entire power source systemon the vehicle with a ratio (65%) relative to a reference value (100%).Therefore, in a case where a failure occurs, a user driving the vehiclecan select an operation of each apparatus so as to be able tosufficiently use the minimum apparatuses required by the user whilechecking the content of the operation limit display portion 2203 and theresidual battery capacity display portion 2205 displayed on the displayscreen 2200.

In a case where a residual battery capacity is very small, control maybe performed so that an apparatus having large current consumptioncannot be selected, or is excluded in advance from display targets inthe target apparatus list display portion 2201. Consequently, it ispossible to prevent source power consumption in a short period of timedue to a user's wrong determination and selection operation.

In step S21 illustrated in FIG. 107, the control unit of the control boxCB or the control unit of the meter unit identifies whether or not apower supply failure occurs. If the power supply failure is detected,the flow proceeds to the subsequent step S22.

In step S22, the control unit of the control box CB or the control unitof the meter unit displays the power supply failure abnormality, andalso displays the display screen 2200 with the content as illustrated inFIG. 106. The user can operate the steering switches in a state in whichthe display screen 2200 illustrated in FIG. 106 is displayed.

The control unit of the control box CB or the control unit of the meterunit detects the user's input operation on the steering switches in stepS23, and updates the display content of the display screen 2200according to the detected input operation. In other words, a displayposition of the cursor display portion 2202 is moved up or down, oralternative switching between ON and OFF of an apparatus state at aselection position in the target apparatus list display portion 2201 isperformed. In a case where a user operation indicating completion ofapparatus selection input is detected, the flow proceeds to step S25from step S24.

In step S25, the control unit of the control box CB or the control unitof the meter unit reflects the user's input operation performed on thetarget apparatus list display portion 2201 on actual control. In otherwords, the supply of power is selectively performed so that source poweris supplied to an apparatus whose operation state is designated as an“ON” state, and source power is not supplied to an apparatus whoseoperation state is designated as an “OFF” state in the target apparatuslist display portion 2201.

For example, in the control box CB illustrated in FIG. 105, the powersource output circuit portion 2116 can individually turn on and off thesupply of power to each of the connectors CP11 to CP20 for each system.Therefore, the gateway control circuit 2111 controls ON and OFF of thepower source output circuit portion 2116 for each system so that a stateselected by the user is reflected, and thus source power is controlledto be supplied to only an apparatus required by the user.

<Configuration Example of Backbone Trunk Line>

FIGS. 108A, 108B and 108C are block diagrams respectively illustratingconfigurations of three backbone trunk lines corresponding to differentgrades.

Vehicular circuit bodies illustrated in FIGS. 108A, 108B and 108C areconfigured to respectively satisfy specifications of power capacities of150 Ah, 300 Ah, and 500 Ah.

The vehicular circuit body illustrated in FIG. 108A is formed of threebackbone trunk lines BB_LM(1)-A, BB_LM(2)-A and BB_LM(3)-A, and controlboxes CB(1) and CB(2) connecting the backbone trunk lines to each other.The vehicular circuit body illustrated in FIG. 108B is formed of threebackbone trunk lines BB_LM(1)-B, BB_LM(2)-B and BB_LM(3)-B, and controlboxes CB(1) and CB(2) connecting the backbone trunk lines to each other.The vehicular circuit body illustrated in FIG. 108C is formed of threebackbone trunk lines BB_LM(1)-C, BB_LM(2)-C and BB_LM(3)-C, and controlboxes CB(1) and CB(2) connecting the backbone trunk lines to each other.

The backbone trunk lines BB_LM(1)-A, BB_LM(2)-A and BB_LM(3)-A include apower source line (L1) and an earth line (L3) having a thicknesscorresponding to the power capacity of 150 Ah. The backbone trunk linesBB_LM(1)-B, BB_LM(2)-B and BB_LM(3)-B include a power source line (L1)and an earth line (L3) having a thickness corresponding to the powercapacity of 300 Ah. The backbone trunk lines BB_LM(1)-C, BB_LM(2)-C andBB_LM(3)-C include a power source line (L1) and an earth line (L3)having a thickness corresponding to the power capacity of 500 Ah.

In other words, in the three kinds of vehicular circuit bodiesillustrated in FIGS. 108A, 108B and 108C, forms and configurationsthereof are the same as each other, but thicknesses of the power sourcelines and the earth lines of the backbone trunk lines BB_LM aredifferent from each other. Therefore, three kinds of backbone trunklines BB_LM including the power source lines and the earth lines havingdifferent thicknesses are prepared in advance, only the thickness isselectively changed, and thus it is possible to form a vehicular circuitbody which can be employed in each of a plurality of kinds of vehicleswhose grades are different from each other, or each of a plurality oftypes of vehicles.

For example, in a case of a vehicle with a basic grade, the number ofconnected electric components is small, and power consumption of eachelectric component is also small. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 108A, itis possible to sufficiently satisfy a required specification by usingthe vehicular circuit body having the power capacity of 150 Ah. In acase of a vehicle with an intermediate grade, the number of connectedelectric components increases, and power consumption of each electriccomponent slightly increases. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 108B, it ispossible to sufficiently satisfy a required specification by using thevehicular circuit body having the power capacity of 300 Ah.

In a case of a vehicle with a high grade, the number of connectedelectric components further increases, power consumption of eachelectric component also increases, and an electric component such as anautomatic driving system which is to newly developed may be added. Thus,as illustrated in FIG. 108C, it is possible to sufficiently satisfy arequired specification by using the vehicular circuit body having thepower capacity of 500 Ah.

In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 108A, 108B and 108C, it is assumedthat only thicknesses of the power source line and the earth line of thebackbone trunk line BB_LM are changed depending on a difference in agrade, and only one kind of the control box CB is used.

However, a plurality of kinds of control boxes CB may be prepared, andone control box may be selected from among the plurality of kinds ofcontrol boxes depending on a difference in a grade. In this case,components of the control boxes CB can be used in common by employing,for example, the technique shown in FIG. 61. In a case where aspecification for a power capacity is not changed, coping may beperformed by changing the kind of the control box CB without changing athickness of the backbone trunk line BB_LM. Consequently, it is possibleto cope with a change in the number of electric components mounted on avehicle or a change in a communication specification (transmissionspeed).

<Power Source System Supplying Stable Voltage> <Description ofConfiguration>

FIGS. 109A and 109B respectively illustrate configuration examples oftwo kinds of on-vehicle systems. The on-vehicle system illustrated inFIG. 109A has a configuration appropriate for a general vehicle havingonly a low voltage system as a power source. The on-vehicle systemillustrated in FIG. 109B has a configuration appropriate for a hybridvehicle having a low voltage system and a high voltage system as a powersource.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 109A, one end L1 a of thepower source line L1 included in the above-described backbone trunk lineBB_LM is connected to an alternator ALT and a main battery MB. The otherend L1 b of the power source line L1 is connected to an output side of aDC/DC converter DC1. An input side of the DC/DC converter DC1 isconnected to a sub-battery SB which accumulates regenerative power.

The alternator ALT is a generator and can automatically adjust a DCvoltage which is output to one end L1 a of the power source line L1. TheDC/DC converter DC1 can convert a voltage of DC power supplied from thesub-battery SB and output the voltage to the other end L1 b of the powersource line L1. The DC/DC converter DC1 can automatically adjust anoutput DC voltage.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 109A, a plurality of loads areconnected to an intermediate portion between one end L1 a and the otherend L1 b of the power source line L1 in a distribution manner. Sourcepower required by each of the loads may be supplied from the alternatorALT via the power source line L1, and may be supplied from the DC/DCconverter DC1 via the power source line L1.

On the other hand, in the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 109B,one end L1 a of the power source line L1 included in the above-describedbackbone trunk line BB_LM is connected to an output side of a DC/DCconverter DC2 and a main battery MB. An input side of the DC/DCconverter DC2 is connected to a high voltage power source system. Theother end L1 b of the power source line L1 is connected to an outputside of a DC/DC converter DC3. An input side of the DC/DC converter DC3is connected to a battery HB of a high voltage power source system.

The DC/DC converter DC2 converts a high voltage supplied from the highvoltage power source system into a low voltage of, for example, about 12V, and supplies the voltage to one end L1 a of the power source line L1and the main battery MB. The DC/DC converter DC3 converts a high voltagesupplied from the battery HB into a low voltage of, for example, about12 V, and supplies the voltage to the other end L1 b of the power sourceline L1. Each of the DC/DC converters DC2 and DC3 has a function ofautomatically adjusting an output voltage.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 109B, a plurality of loads areconnected to an intermediate portion between one end L1 a and the otherend L1 b of the power source line L1 in a distribution manner. Sourcepower required by each of the loads may be supplied from the output sideof the DC/DC converter DC2 via the power source line L1, and may besupplied from the output side of the DC/DC converter DC3 via the powersource line L1.

<Description of Fundamental Operation>

In both of the on-vehicle systems illustrated in FIGS. 109A and 109B,different power sources are respectively connected to one end L1 a andthe other end L1 b of the power source line L1. Therefore, allocationbetween a power source current flowing through each load from the powersource on one end L1 a side and a power source current flowing througheach load from the power source on the other end L1 b side isappropriately adjusted, and thus it is possible to prevent an increasein a current flowing through each portion of the power source line L1and thus to reduce a voltage drop in the power source line L1. Thus, itis also possible to reduce a sectional area of the power source line L1.

However, if current consumption in each load fluctuates due to a changein an operation state of each load connected to the power source lineL1, the allocation between a power source current flowing through eachload from the power source on one end L1 a side and a power sourcecurrent flowing through each load from the power source on the other endL1 b side also changes. If a distance between a power source supplying arelatively large current and a load consuming a large current increases,a voltage drop in a corresponding portion of the power source line L1increases. In order to prevent the increase of the voltage drop,characteristic control described below is performed.

<Characteristic Control of Power Source System>

In both of the on-vehicle systems in FIGS. 109A and 109B, a controlreference point L1 r is provided at a specific position close to thecenter of the power source line L1.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 109A, automatic control isperformed so that a voltage Vxr appearing at the control reference pointL1 r on the power source line L1 due to power output from the alternatorALT is the same as a voltage Vyr appearing at the control referencepoint L1 r on the power source line L1 due to power output from theDC/DC converter DC1, that is, a balance state occurs. This control maybe realized by adjusting either an output voltage from the alternatorALT or an output voltage from the DC/DC converter DC1, or both of theoutput voltages.

Actually, the voltage Vxr may be estimated through computation on thebasis of an output voltage from the alternator ALT, a position of thecontrol reference point L1 r, a connection position of each load, anoperation state of each load, and the like. The voltage Vyr may beestimated through computation on the basis of an output voltage from theDC/DC converter DC1, a position of the control reference point L1 r, aconnection position of each load, an operation state (currentconsumption) of each load, and the like. Therefore, the output voltagefrom the alternator ALT or the output voltage from the DC/DC converterDC1 is automatically adjusted so that the estimated voltage Vxr andvoltage Vyr are brought into a balance state.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 109B, automatic control isperformed so that a voltage Vxr appearing at the control reference pointL1 r on the power source line L1 due to power output from the DC/DCconverter DC2 is the same as a voltage Vyr appearing at the controlreference point L1 r on the power source line L1 due to power outputfrom the DC/DC converter DC3, that is, a balance state occurs. Thiscontrol may be realized by adjusting either an output voltage from theDC/DC converter DC2 or an output voltage from the DC/DC converter DC3,or both of the output voltages.

Actually, the voltage Vxr may be estimated through computation on thebasis of an output voltage from the DC/DC converter DC2, a position ofthe control reference point L1 r, a connection position of each load, anoperation state of each load, and the like. The voltage Vyr may beestimated through computation on the basis of an output voltage from theDC/DC converter DC3, a position of the control reference point L1 r, aconnection position of each load, an operation state of each load, andthe like. Therefore, the output voltage from the DC/DC converter DC2 orthe output voltage from the DC/DC converter DC3 is automaticallyadjusted so that the estimated voltage Vxr and voltage Vyr are broughtinto a balance state.

The characteristic control is performed as described above, and thus avoltage drop in each portion of the power source line L1 can beprevented. Thus, even in a case where various kinds of loads areconnected, it is possible to reduce a diameter of the backbone trunkline BB_LM including the power source line L1.

<Backup Control on Trunk Line Power Source>

FIG. 110 illustrates a configuration example of an on-vehicle system. Apower source trunk line of the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 110is formed of a plurality of control boxes CB(1) to CB(5), and a backbonetrunk line BB_LM connecting the control boxes to each other.

As illustrated in FIG. 110, an output side of a main power sourceportion 2213 including an alternator ALT and a main battery MB isconnected to the control box CB(1) disposed in a front portion of avehicle. A sub-battery SB disposed in a rear portion of the vehicle isconnected to the control box CB(5).

The control box CB(1) includes a power source abnormality detection unit2211 which detects an abnormality of a voltage or the like due to apower supply failure in the main power source portion 2213, that is,short-circuit or disconnection. The control box CB(5) includes a powersource abnormality detection unit 2211 which detects an abnormality suchas a power supply failure in the sub-battery SB.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 110, an output side of thecontrol box CB(3) is connected to a general load 2214 and a backup load2215. The control box CB(3) is provided with a switch which switchesbetween ON and OFF of the supply of source power to the general load2214 and a switch which switches between ON and OFF of the supply ofsource power to the backup load 2215.

The general load 2214 is a load which is defined in advance so as to beused in a case where the entire system is normally operated. The backupload 2215 is a load which is defined in advance so as to preferentiallysecure source power required for an operation in a case where a certainpower supply failure occurs in the system.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 110, for example, if thepower source abnormality detection unit 2211 of the control box CB(1)detects a power supply failure in the main power source portion 2213,the control box CB(1) transmits a predetermined control signal 2212 toall of the remaining control boxes CB(2) to CB(5). In response to thecontrol signal 2212, for example, the control box CB(3) stops the supplyof power to the general load 2214, and distributes source power suppliedfrom the backbone trunk line BB_LM to only the backup load 2215. Theother control boxes CB(2), CB(4) and CB(5) similarly distribute power tobackup loads connected thereto and under the control thereof.

For example, if the power source abnormality detection unit 2211 of thecontrol box CB(5) detects a power supply failure in the sub-battery SB,the control box CB(5) transmits a predetermined control signal 2212 toall of the remaining control boxes CB(1) to CB(4). Also in this case,each control box CB stops the supply of power to the general load 2214connected thereto and under the control thereof, and distributes sourcepower from the backbone trunk line BB_LM to only the backup load 2215.

For example, in a case where a power supply failure occurs in the mainpower source portion 2213, source power from the sub-battery SB can beused, but the power supply performance of the entire power source systemis considerably lower than during normal time. Similarly, in a casewhere a power supply failure occurs in the sub-battery SB, source powerfrom the main power source portion 2213 can be used, but the powersupply performance of the entire power source system is reduced if thesub-battery SB is assumed to be used. In this case, through theabove-described control, the supply of power to the general load 2214 isstopped, power is supplied to only the backup load 2215, and thus it ispossible to maintain a necessary function by effectively usingrestricted source power.

<Technique of Changing Trunk Line Diameter for Each Branch>

FIG. 111 illustrates examples of a configuration of a power source lineincluded in a backbone trunk line and a connection state of eachapparatus. In a configuration illustrated in FIG. 111, a thickness(sectional area) of a power source line 21 included in a backbone trunkline BB_LM is configured to be changed stepwise according to adifference in a location on the backbone trunk line BB_LM.

Specifically, the power source line 21 is formed by stacking a pluralityof thin tabular routing materials (conductive materials) 21 a, 21 b, 21c and 21 d in a thickness direction, and the number of stacked thintabular routing materials 21 a to 21 d is configured to be changed foreach branch location on the backbone trunk line BB_LM.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 111, a connection point P0provided at an end of the power source line 21 on an upstream side isconnected to an alternator ALT and a main battery MB. Each position ofconnection points P1, P2, P3 and P4 on the power source line 21 isbranched so as to respectively connect to a load via a branch linesub-harness LS.

The power source line 21 is formed by stacking four thin tabular routingmaterials 21 a, 21 b, 21 c and 21 d between the connection point P0 onthe most upstream side and the next connection point P1. The powersource line 21 is formed by stacking three thin tabular routingmaterials 21 b, 21 c and 21 d between the connection point P1 and thenext connection point P2. The power source line 21 is formed by stackingtwo thin tabular routing materials 21 c and 21 d between the connectionpoint P2 and the next connection point P3. The power source line 21 isformed of only a single thin tabular routing material 21 d between theconnection point P3 and the next connection point P4.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 111, currents of all four loadsflow in a section between the connection point P0 and the connectionpoint P1. Currents of three loads flow in a section between theconnection point P1 and the connection point P2; currents of two loadsflow in a section between the connection point P2 and the connectionpoint P3; and a current of only one load flows in a section between theconnection point P3 and the connection point P4.

In other words, currents flow in a concentrated manner at the positionon the upstream side close to the alternator ALT and the main batteryMB. A voltage drop occurring in each section is proportional to themagnitude of a flowing current, and thus a voltage drop more easilyoccurs as a position comes closer to the upstream side of the powersource line 21. However, as illustrated in FIG. 111, if the thickness ofthe power source line 21 is large on the upstream side, resistivity perunit length is reduced, and thus it is possible to reduce a voltagedrop. Since a current value is relatively reduced on the downstream sideof the power source line 21, a voltage drop does not increase even ifthe thickness of the power source line 21 is small.

As mentioned above, since the thickness of the power source line 21 ischanged depending on a difference in a location by taking intoconsideration the magnitude of a flowing current, it is possible toreduce a thickness or a weight of the backbone trunk line BB_LM as awhole without increasing a voltage drop. Although not illustrated, athickness of an earth line of the backbone trunk line BB_LM is alsopreferably configured to be changed depending on a location in the samemanner as that of the power source line 21.

<Wireless Communication Technique for Stable Communication>

FIG. 112 illustrates a configuration example of an on-vehicle system.

In an on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 112, seven control boxesCB-1, CB-2, CB-3, CB-4, CB-5, CB-6 and CB-7 which are disposed in astate of being distributed to respective portions of a vehicle body areconnected to each other via a backbone trunk line BB_LM. The backbonetrunk line BB_LM includes a power source line, an earth line, and acommunication line as described above.

Each of the control boxes CB-1 to CB-7 illustrated in FIG. 112 has awireless communication function. Communication terminals 2221, 2222,2223, 2224, 2225 and 2226 are provided at respective portions of fourdoors of the vehicle body, and the left and right of a luggage room rearportion of the vehicle body. A plurality of communication terminals2231, 2232 and 2233 having a relay function are provided in the luggageroom rear portion.

Each of the communication terminals 2221 to 2226 and each of the controlboxes CB-1, CB-3, CB-4, CB-6 and CB-7 are mounted with electricalcircuits using a proximity wireless technique, and can perform thesupply of power and communication in a noncontact manner. Each of thecommunication terminals 2231 to 2233 having a relay function has awireless communication function, and also has a relay function.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 112, communication amongthe control boxes CB-1 to CB-7 is normally performed via thecommunication line of the backbone trunk line BB_LM.

For example, even in a case where a wireless communication path betweenthe control box CB-7 and the communication terminal 2232 having a relayfunction is blocked by luggage 2241, the communication terminal 2232having a relay function can perform wireless communication with thecommunication terminals 2231 and 2233 having a relay function disposednear the left and right thereof. Therefore, for example, as indicated bya dotted line in FIG. 112, wireless communication lines are establishedbetween the communication terminals 2232 and 2231 having a relayfunction, and between the communication terminal 2231 having a relayfunction and the control box CB-7, and the communication terminal 2231having a relay function is used as a wireless relay station. In otherwords, a wireless communication line is established along a path fromthe communication terminal 2232 having a relay function to the controlbox CB-7 via the communication terminal 2231 having a relay function.

Actually, there is a variation in the communication performance due tothe influence of a difference in cost of each terminal, a differencebetween kinds of the terminals, a difference between manufacturers ofthe terminals, and a difference between the individual terminals, andthus there is a probability that a difference may occur in acommunication state with a direct or indirect communication partner. InFIG. 112, for example, in a case where it is difficult to performcommunication due to a difference in terminal performance althoughcommunication is desired to be performed from the communication terminal2232 having a relay function to the control box CB-2 in a wirelessmanner, communication is temporarily performed from the communicationterminal 2232 having a relay function to the control box CB-5, and thencommunication is performed from the control box CB-5 to the control boxCB-2 in a wired or wireless manner. Therefore, for example, whether ornot communication can be actually performed is sequentially examinedwith respect to available communication line paths on the basis of thepredefined priority, and an optimal path is automatically selected. In acase where communication is interrupted in the middle, a communicationfailure is detected, and execution of relay or a communication path isautomatically changed.

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 112, the backbone trunk line BB_LMmay be disconnected between the control boxes CB-2 and CB-5 (includingdisconnection of only a communication path). In a case wherecommunication cannot be performed due to such disconnection of the wiredpath, a necessary communication line is secured by using the wirelesscommunication function of each of the control boxes CB-1 to CB-7. Forexample, in a case where the backbone trunk line BB_LM is disconnectedbetween the control boxes CB-2 and CB-5, as indicated by a dotted linein FIG. 112, a wireless communication line is secured between controlboxes CB-3 and CB-5, and a communicable state between the control boxesCB-2 and CB-5 is maintained by using a wired line between the controlboxes CB-3 and CB-2.

On the other hand, for example, since a door of a vehicle is opened andclosed, in a case where a wire harness is used to connect an electriccomponent disposed in the door to a vehicle interior of the vehiclebody, the wire harness tends to be disconnected due to the influence ofdeformation or the like caused by opening and closing of the door.

In the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 112, the control box CB-1and the communication terminal 2221 are connected to each other by usinga proximity wireless technique. Similarly, the control box CB-3 and thecommunication terminal 2222, the control box CB-4 and the communicationterminal 2223, the control box CB-6 and the communication terminal 2224,and the control box CB-7 and the communication terminals 2225 and 2226are also connected to each other by using the proximity wirelesstechnique. Therefore, since it is not necessary to provide a wireharness in a movable portion, and there is no concern aboutdisconnection, it is possible to increase reliability of the supply ofpower and communication.

However, in a case where the luggage 2241 is disposed in the luggageroom of the vehicle body, electric waves may be blocked by the luggage2241, and thus wireless communication cannot be performed if wirelesscommunication is performed in the vicinity thereof.

For example, in the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 112, a case isassumed in which the control box CB-7 and the communication terminals2231, 2232 and 2233 having a relay function are connected to each othervia wireless communication lines and perform communication with eachother, but the wireless communication lines may be interrupted due tothe influence of the luggage 2241 or a passenger. However, each of thecommunication terminals 2231 to 2233 having a relay function has a relayfunction using wireless communication, and can thus continuously performcommunication by securing other wireless communication lines.

As described above, in the on-vehicle system illustrated in FIG. 112,since the control boxes CB-1 to CB-7 which can perform wirelesscommunication or the communication terminals 2231 to 2233 having a relayfunction are disposed at various locations of the vehicle body, variousapparatuses having a wireless communication function can be easilyconnected to the on-vehicle system through post-installation. Even in acase where a failure such as disconnection occurs in the wiredcommunication paths connecting the control boxes CB-1 to CB-7 to eachother, it is possible to secure a necessary communication line by usingwireless communication. Since the proximity wireless technique is usedin a movable portion such as a door, it is not necessary to use a wireharness, and there is no concern about disconnection. Therefore, it ispossible to perform stable wireless communication and the supply ofpower.

Fourth Embodiment

FIG. 113 is a schematic plan view illustrating a layout of a backbonetrunk line portion according to a vehicular circuit body of a fourthembodiment of the present invention.

In the same manner as the vehicular circuit body 10 according to thefirst embodiment, a vehicular circuit body according to the fourthembodiment includes, as fundamental constituent elements, a trunk line(backbone trunk line portion 1415) routed in a vehicle body and having apower source line 1421, an earth line 1427, and a communication line1429; branch lines (not illustrated) connected to electric components atrespective vehicle body locations; and a plurality of control boxes (asupply side control box 1451, a branch control box 1453, an intermediatecontrol box 1457, and control boxes 1455 and 1459) disposed along thetrunk line in a distribution manner and having a control unit fordistributing power from the power source line 1421 supplied to the trunkline and signals from the communication line 1429 to the branch linesconnected to the trunk line.

(Backbone Trunk Line Portion)

The backbone trunk line portion 1415 illustrated in FIG. 113 is a trunkline which includes the power source line 1421, the earth line 1427, andthe communication line 1429, and is routed in a vehicle body, and isbroadly divided into an instrument panel backbone trunk line portion1411 which is linearly disposed in a leftward-and-rightward direction soas to be substantially in parallel to a reinforcement (not illustrated)of the vehicle body, and a floor backbone trunk line portion 1413 whichis disposed to extend in a front-and-rear direction of the vehicle bodysubstantially at the center of the vehicle body in theleftward-and-rightward direction along a vehicle interior floor.

The floor backbone trunk line portion 1413 linearly extends in anupward-and-downward direction at the location along the surface of thedash panel 50 (refer to FIG. 1) so that a tip end thereof is connectedto an intermediate part of the instrument panel backbone trunk lineportion 1411. Connection portions of the instrument panel backbone trunkline portion 1411 and the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413 are ina state of being attachable and detachable via a connector portion 1500of the branch control box 1453 and a multi-connector 1600 of the floorbackbone trunk line portion 1413, which will be described later.

The backbone trunk line portion 1415 is configured in a shape similar toa T shape due to the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 1411and the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413.

The instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 1411 is connected to amain power source cable 1481 of the engine compartment sub-harness 61(refer to FIG. 1) via the supply side control box 1451 which is disposedon the left of the vehicle body which is an upstream side of thebackbone trunk line portion 1415.

In the same manner as the vehicular circuit body 10 according to thefirst embodiment, principal constituent elements of the vehicularcircuit body according to the fourth embodiment, that is, the instrumentpanel backbone trunk line portion 1411, the floor backbone trunk lineportion 1413, the supply side control box 1451, the branch control box1453, the intermediate control box 1457, and the control boxes 1455 and1459 are all disposed in a space on the vehicle interior 43 side. Themain power source cable 1481 connected to the supply side control box1451 provided at the left end of the instrument panel backbone trunkline portion 1411 is connected to the engine compartment sub-harness 61inside the engine room 41. Consequently, power from the main powersource can be supplied to the supply side control box 1451.

The power supplied to the supply side control box 1451 from the mainpower source is supplied to the branch control box 1453, theintermediate control box 1457, and the control boxes 1455 and 1459 viathe backbone trunk line portion 1415. The power is supplied to varioussub-harnesses (branch lines) connected to electric components(accessories) at the respective vehicle body locations via moduleconnectors MC (refer to FIG. 116A) connected to branch line connectionportions 1521 of the respective control boxes.

The module connectors MC can collectively connect power of the powersources and the ground and signals to the control boxes so as toefficiently transmit power and signals to the backbone trunk lineportion 1415 and the respective accessories.

(Routing Material)

The backbone trunk line portion 1415 of the vehicular circuit bodyaccording to the fourth embodiment is formed of a routing material 1420having the power source line 1421, the communication line 1429, and theearth line 1427 as illustrated in FIGS. 113 and 114. The power sourceline 1421 and the earth line 1427 employ a round bar conductor 403 madeof a metal material (for example, a copper alloy or aluminum) whosesectional shape is a circular shape, and peripheries thereof are coveredwith an insulating coat 110. The communication line 1429 employs twoplastic optical fibers forming a forward route and a backward route. Therouting material 1420 formed of the power source line 1421, the earthline 1427, and the communication line 1429 are integrally held by, forexample, clamps 455 (refer to FIG. 23) which are molded at apredetermined interval along a longitudinal direction.

Consequently, the routing material 1420 allows a large current to passtherethrough, and thus communication which is resistant to noise can beperformed.

The power source line 1421 of the backbone trunk line portion 1415requires a large sectional area in order to secure a predeterminedcurrent capacity, but the power source line 1421 of the presentembodiment is formed of the routing material 1420 having the round barconductor 403 whose sectional shape is a circular shape so as to be ableto be freely bent in all directions, and thus work for routing along apredetermined routing path is facilitated.

(Control Boxes)

As illustrated in FIG. 114, the vehicular circuit body according to thefourth embodiment is provided with five control boxes such as the supplyside control box 1451 disposed at an upstream end (the left end of theinstrument panel backbone trunk line portion 1411) of the backbone trunkline portion 1415, the branch control box 1453 disposed in a branchportion (a connection portion between the instrument panel backbonetrunk line portion 1411 and the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413)in the middle of the backbone trunk line portion 1415, the intermediatecontrol box 1457 disposed in the middle (an intermediate portion of thefloor backbone trunk line portion 1413) of the backbone trunk lineportion 1415, and the control boxes 1455 and 1459 disposed at downstreamends (the right end of the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion1411 and the rear end of the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413) ofthe backbone trunk line portion 1415.

As illustrated in FIGS. 115A to 115C, the supply side control box 1451is provided with a main power source connection portion 1520 whichconnects the main power source cable 1481 to the instrument panelbackbone trunk line portion 1411, a branch line connection portion 1521which connects front door branch line sub-harness 63 or a sub-harness 71(refer to FIG. 1) thereto, and an instrument panel connection portion1510 which transmits power and signals to a plurality of accessoriesmounted on an instrument panel such as a meter panel. The supply sidecontrol box 1451 can connect power source systems, earth systems, andcommunication systems of respective circuits to each other among themain power source cable 1481, the instrument panel backbone trunk lineportion 1411, the front door branch line sub-harness 63, the sub-harness71, and the meter panel.

The supply side control box 1451 accommodates a circuit board (notillustrated) in a case formed of a lower case 1522 and an upper case1524. The power source line 1421, the earth line 1427, and thecommunication line 1429 in the instrument panel backbone trunk lineportion 1411 are electrically branch-connected to a plurality of boardconnectors 1531 provided at one edge of the circuit board or connectorsof the instrument panel connection portion 1510 in order to form thebranch line connection portion 1521, via circuits or bus bars formed onthe board.

The main power source connection portion 1520 includes a terminalconnection part 1511 connected to a power source line 1482 of the mainpower source cable 1481, and a terminal connection part 1513 connectedto an earth line 1484 thereof.

As illustrated in FIG. 113, the terminal connection part 1511 formed ata tip end of the round bar conductor 403 in the power source line 1421is fitted and connected to a round terminal 1486 provided at an end ofthe power source line 1482. The terminal connection part 1513 formed ata tip end of the round bar conductor 403 in the earth line 1427 isfitted and connected to a round terminal 1486 provided at an end of theearth line 1484. In the above-described way, the main power source cable1481 can be connected and fixed to the instrument panel backbone trunkline portion 1411. The communication line 1429 is connected to thecircuit board via, for example, a board connector (not illustrated).

In the same manner as in the circuit board 125 of the supply sidecontrol box 51 according to the first embodiment, the circuit board ofthe supply side control box 1451 is mounted with a control unit whichdistributes power from the power source line 1421 and signals from thecommunication line 1429 to branch lines such as the engine compartmentsub-harness 61, the front door branch line sub-harness 63, or thesub-harness 71. The circuit board is mounted with a plurality ofelectric components (accessories), and switch circuits each including anFPGA device and a circuit module, as constituent elements which arerequired to switch between connection states of the electric components.

The board connectors 1531 of the branch line connection portion 1521 areconnector-connected to the instrument panel branch line sub-harness 31,the front door branch line sub-harness 63, and the module connector MC(refer to FIG. 116) connected to an end of the sub-harness 71. Themodule connectors MC can transmit power from the power source line 1421and the earth line 1427 and signals from the communication line 1429 torespective electric components.

As illustrated in FIG. 113, the branch control box 1453 is disposed inthe branch portion in the middle of the backbone trunk line portion1415, which is the connection portion between the instrument panelbackbone trunk line portion 1411 and the floor backbone trunk lineportion 1413. As illustrated in FIGS. 116A and 116B, the branch controlbox 1453 is provided with the branch line connection portion 1521 forconnection to a sub-harness (branch line) connected to an electriccomponent (not illustrated), and the connector portion 1500 forconnection to the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413. The branchcontrol box 1453 can connect power source systems, earth systems, andcommunication systems of respective circuits to each other among thesub-harness, the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 1411, andthe floor backbone trunk line portion 1413.

In the same manner as the supply side control box 1451, the branchcontrol box 1453 accommodates a circuit board 1525 in a case formed of alower case 1522 and an upper case 1524.

As illustrated in FIG. 117 and FIGS. 118A and 118B, a board connectionconnector 1441 connected to the power source line 1421, the earth line1427, and the communication line 1429 in the instrument panel backbonetrunk line portion 1411 is fitted to the trunk line connection connector1541 mounted on the circuit board 1525.

The power source line 1421, the earth line 1427, and the communicationline 1429 in the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 1411 areelectrically branch-connected to a plurality of board connectors 1531provided at one edge of the circuit board 1525 in order to form thebranch line connection portion 1521, via the trunk line connectionconnector 1541 and the circuit or the bus bar formed on the board. Theboard connector 1533 forming the branch line connection portion 1521 is,for example, a connector for connection to a sub-harness for a powerload for supplying source power to an electric component requiringconsiderably large source power, and the power source line 1421 and theearth line 1427 in the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 1411are electrically branch-connected thereto via the trunk line connectionconnector 1541 and the bus bar 1550 formed on the board.

A pair of fiber optic transceivers (FOTs) 1544 (refer to FIG. 118B)optically connected to the communication line 1429 of the floor backbonetrunk line portion 1413 is mounted on the circuit board 1525 in anoptical connector portion 1535 provided at one edge of the circuit board1525 to form the connector portion 1500.

A control unit 1551 for distributing power from the power source line1421 and signals from the communication line 1429 to a plurality ofelectric components (accessories) is mounted on the circuit board 1525.The circuit board 1525 is mounted with a plurality of electriccomponents (accessories), and a switching circuit 1552 including afield-programmable gate array (FPGA) device and a circuit module as aconstituent element required to switch between connection states of theelectric components.

The trunk line connection connector 1541 includes a female connectorportion 1547 in which a pair of female terminals 1527 (refer to FIG.118A) which are respectively electrically connected to the power sourceline 1421 and the earth line 1427 are mounted on the circuit board 1525,and optical connector portions 1543 and 1545 in which a pair of FOTs1542 (refer to FIG. 118B) which are respectively optically connected tothe communication lines 1429 on the upstream side and the downstreamside are mounted on the circuit board 1525.

The FOTs 1542 and 1544 convert an electrical signal and an opticalsignal into each other, and transmit and receive the signals. Therefore,optical signals received by the FOTs 1542 and 1544 are converted intoelectrical signals and then electrically branch via circuits of thecircuit board 1525, and electrical signals which are input to the FOTs1542 and 1544 are converted into optical signals and then transmitted tothe communication line 1429.

The board connection connector 1441 fixed to the lower case 1522includes a pair of bus bars 1534 which are respectively electricallyconnected to the power source line 1421 and the earth line 1427 in ahousing main body 1440, and two sets of optical plug connectors 1443 and1445 which are respectively optically connected to the communicationlines 1429 on the upstream side and the downstream side.

A pair of arm portions 1442 protrude on one side surface along alongitudinal direction of the housing main body 1440, and hold the powersource line 1421 and the earth line 1427 in parallel to each other.Optical connector fixing portions 1446 are provided on both end surfacesof the housing main body 1440 in the longitudinal direction, and theoptical connectors connected to the ends of the communication lines 1429on the upstream side and the downstream side are fixed thereto and areoptically connected to the respective sets of optical plug connectors1443 and 1445.

Each of the bus bars 1534 includes, as illustrated in FIG. 118A, aconductor connection portion 1532 which extends in a directionorthogonal to the power source line 1421 and the earth line 1427, and amale terminal 1530 suspended from one end of the conductor connectionportion 1532. Each conductor connection portion 1532 is electricallyconnected, through welding or the like, to the round bar conductors 403which are exposed by peeling off an insulating coat 404 at predeterminedlocations of the power source line 1421 and the earth line 1427.

As illustrated in FIGS. 120A and 120B, a pair of terminal connectionportions 1561 and 1563 forming the connector portion 1500 are fixed toone side surface of the lower case 1522 corresponding to one edge of thecircuit board 1525 provided with the optical connector portion 1535 viaa housing 1560. Basal ends 1562 and 1564 of the terminal connectionportions 1561 and 1563 whose tip ends are connected to the power sourceline 1421 and the earth line 1427 of the floor backbone trunk lineportion 1413 are electrically connected to the round bar conductors 403of the power source line 1421 and the earth line 1427 of the instrumentpanel backbone trunk line portion 1411 through welding or the like.

As illustrated in FIGS. 118A and 118B, the male terminals 1530 and theoptical plug connectors 1443 and 1445 of the board connection connector1441 are respectively fitted to the female terminals 1527 and theoptical connector portions 1543 and 1545 in the trunk line connectionconnector 1541, so that the circuit board 1525 is fixed to the lowercase 1522.

As illustrated in FIGS. 119A and 119B, the multi-connector 1600 isconnected to the end of the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413. Themulti-connector 1600 is provided with a housing 1610 having a terminalaccommodation room in which round terminals 1620 connected to the endsof the power source line 1421 and the earth line 1427 are accommodated(refer to FIG. 120A). The housing 1610 integrally holds an opticalconnector 1630 connected to the end of the communication line 1429.

Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 121, if the multi-connector 1600 isfitted to the connector portion 1500 of the branch control box 1453, tipends of the respective terminal connection portions 1561 and 1563 areinserted into and electrically connected to round terminals 1620, andthe optical connector 1630 is inserted into and optically connected tothe optical connector portion 1535. As mentioned above, themulti-connector 1600 can collectively connect the power source line1421, the earth line 1427, and the communication line 1429 to theconnector portion 1500 of the branch control box 1453.

As a result, the branch control box 1453 can branch-connect the powersource line 1421, the earth line 1427, and the communication line 1429in the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 1411 to the powersource line 1421, the earth line 1427, and the communication line 1429in the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413, and can also supply powerand signals to each electric component via the module connector Cconnected to the branch line connection portion 1521.

In the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 1411 and the floorbackbone trunk line portion 1413, the connection portions are madeattachable and detachable via the connector portion 1500 and themulti-connector 1600, and thus workability during routing in a vehiclebody considerably improves.

As illustrated in FIGS. 122A and 122B, the control box 1455 is disposedat the downstream end of the backbone trunk line portion 1415corresponding to the right end of the instrument panel backbone trunkline portion 1411, and includes the branch line connection portion 1521for connecting the front door branch line sub-harness 63 or asub-harness 73 (refer to FIG. 1), and an instrument panel connectionportion 1510 for transmitting power and signals to a plurality ofaccessories mounted on an instrument panel such as the meter panel. Thecontrol box 1455 can connect power source systems, earth systems, andcommunication systems of respective circuits to each other among theinstrument panel backbone trunk line portion 1411, the front door branchline sub-harness 63, and the sub-harness 73.

In the same manner as the supply side control box 1451, the control box1455 accommodates a circuit board (not illustrated) in a case formed ofa lower case 1522 and an upper case 1524. The power source line 1421,the earth line 1427, and the communication line 1429 in the instrumentpanel backbone trunk line portion 1411 are electrically branch-connectedto a plurality of board connectors 1531 provided at one edge of thecircuit board or the connectors of the instrument panel connectionportion 1510 in order to form the branch line connection portion 1521,via circuits or bus bars formed on the board.

As illustrated in FIG. 123, the intermediate control box 1457 isdisposed in the middle of the backbone trunk line portion 1415, which isan intermediate portion of the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413,and includes a branch line connection portion 1521 for connection to therear door branch line sub-harnesses 65, the center console branch linesub-harness 66, the front seat branch line sub-harnesses 67, and therear seat branch line sub-harnesses 68 (refer to FIG. 1). Theintermediate control box 1457 can connect power source systems, earthsystems, and communication systems of respective circuits to each otheramong the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413, the rear door branchline sub-harnesses 65, the center console branch line sub-harness 66,the front seat branch line sub-harnesses 67, and the rear seat branchline sub-harnesses 68.

In the same manner as the branch control box 1453, the intermediatecontrol box 1457 accommodates a circuit board 1725 in a case formed of alower case 1522 and an upper case 1524.

As illustrated in FIGS. 124 and 125, a board connection connector 1841connected to the power source line 1421, the earth line 1427, and thecommunication line 1429 in the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413 isfitted to the trunk line connection connector 1741 mounted on thecircuit board 1725.

The power source line 1421, the earth line 1427, and the communicationline 1429 in the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413 are electricallybranch-connected to a plurality of board connectors 1531 provided atboth edges of the circuit board 1725 in order to form the branch lineconnection portion 1521, via the trunk line connection connector 1741and the circuit or the bus bar formed on the board.

In the same manner as on the circuit board 1525, the control unit 1551and the switching circuit 1553 are mounted on the circuit board 1725.

The trunk line connection connector 1741 includes a female connectorportion 1547 in which a pair of female terminals 1527 (refer to FIG.125) which are respectively electrically connected to the power sourceline 1421 and the earth line 1427 are mounted on the circuit board 1725,and optical connector portions 1543 and 1545 in which a pair of FOTs1542 (refer to FIG. 125) which are respectively optically connected tothe communication lines 1429 on the upstream side and the downstreamside are mounted on the circuit board 1725.

The board connection connector 1841 fixed to the lower case 1522includes a pair of bus bars 1534 which are respectively electricallyconnected to the power source line 1421 and the earth line 1427 in ahousing main body 1840, and two sets of optical plug connectors 1443 and1445 which are respectively optically connected to the communicationlines 1429 on the upstream side and the downstream side.

A pair of arm portions 1842 protrude on one side surface along alongitudinal direction of the housing main body 1840, and hold the powersource line 1421 and the earth line 1427 in parallel to each other.Optical connector fixing portions 1846 are provided on both end surfacesof the housing main body 1840 in the longitudinal direction, and theoptical connectors connected to the ends of the communication lines 1429on the upstream side and the downstream side are fixed thereto and areoptically connected to the respective sets of optical plug connectors1443 and 1445.

Each of the bus bars 1534 includes, as illustrated in FIG. 125, aconductor connection portion 1532 which extends in a directionorthogonal to the power source line 1421 and the earth line 1427, and amale terminal 1530 suspended from one end of the conductor connectionportion 1532. Each conductor connection portion 1532 is electricallyconnected, through welding or the like, to the round bar conductors 403which are exposed by peeling off an insulating coat 404 at predeterminedlocations of the power source line 1421 and the earth line 1427.

As illustrated in FIGS. 126A and 126B, the male terminals 1530 and theoptical plug connectors 1443 and 1445 of the board connection connector1841 are respectively fitted to the female terminals 1527 and theoptical connector portions 1543 and 1545 in the trunk line connectionconnector 1741, so that the circuit board 1725 is fixed to the lowercase 1522.

As a result, the intermediate control box 1457 can supply power andsignals from the power source line 1421, the earth line 1427, and thecommunication line 1429 in the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413 toeach electric component via the module connector C connected to thebranch line connection portion 1521.

In the intermediate control box 1457, the power source line 1421 and theearth line 1427 of the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413 penetratetherethrough, but the power source line 1421 and the earth line 1427 maybe configured to be divided inside the intermediate control box 1457,and are electrically connected to electric components via the bus barsformed on the circuit board 1525. Consequently, since the floor backbonetrunk line portion 1413 on the upstream and downstream sides of theintermediate control box 1457 is shortened, each end thereof isattachable to and detachable from the intermediate control box 1457, andworkability during routing in a vehicle body further improves.

As illustrated in FIG. 114, the control box 1459 disposed at the rearend of the floor backbone trunk line portion 1413 has the substantiallysame configuration as that of the control box 1455 except that theinstrument panel connection portion 1510 is not provided.

In the communication line 1429 of the above-described floor backbonetrunk line portion 1413, two plastic optical fibers forming a forwardroute and a backward route are connected in parallel between the branchcontrol box 1453 and the intermediate control box 1457, and between theintermediate control box 1457 and the control box 1459. In contrast, oneplastic optical fiber may be configured to penetrate through theintermediate control box 1457, and the communication line 1429 may beconnected in a loop form among the branch control box 1453, theintermediate control box 1457, and the control box 1459.

The above-described respective control boxes (the supply side controlbox 1451, the branch control box 1453, the intermediate control box1457, and the control boxes 1455 and 1459) can cope with most vehiclemodels by appropriately changing a plurality of kinds of circuit boards1525 and 1725 having the branch line connection portions 1521corresponding to a grade or a target specification of an attachmenttarget vehicle, and thus it is possible to reduce the number ofcomponents by using a component in common.

The circuit boards 1525 and 1725 can be accommodated in a common caseformed of a lower case 122 and an upper case 124.

(Effects of Vehicular Circuit Body)

As described above, according to the vehicular circuit body of thefourth embodiment, it is possible to provide a vehicular circuit bodywith a simple structure by using the backbone trunk line portion 1415which has a predetermined current capacity and a predeterminedcommunication capacity and is routed in the vehicle body; and the branchlines (the instrument panel branch line sub-harnesses 31, the front doorbranch line sub-harnesses 63, the rear door branch line sub-harnesses65, the center console branch line sub-harness 66, the front seat branchline sub-harnesses 67, the rear seat branch line sub-harnesses 68, theluggage branch line sub-harnesses 69, and the like) which connectelectric components at respective vehicle body locations to the backbonetrunk line portion 1415 via the five control boxes (the supply sidecontrol box 1451, the branch control box 1453, the intermediate controlbox 1457, and the control boxes 1455 and 1459) disposed in adistribution manner along the backbone trunk line portion 1415.

It becomes easier to manufacture the backbone trunk line portion 1415which has a simple shape as a whole and in which the connection portionsof the instrument panel backbone trunk line portion 1411 extending inthe leftward-and-rightward direction of the vehicle body and the floorbackbone trunk line portion 1413 extending the front-and-rear directionof the vehicle body substantially at the center of the vehicle body areattachable and detachable.

Another configuration of a backbone control box 2332 and the vicinitythereof is shown in FIG. 127. As shown in FIG. 127, the backbone controlbox 2332 includes a trunk line connecting portion 2332 a provided at aleft end side, a trunk line connecting portion 2332 b at a right endside, and a trunk line connecting portion 2332 c provided at a lower endside. A right end of a backbone trunk line portion 2321 is connectableto the trunk line connecting portion 2332 a. A left end of a backbonetrunk line portion 2322 is connectable to the backbone connectingportion 2332 b. A leading end of a backbone trunk line 2323 isconnectable to the trunk line connecting portion 2332 c.

Specifically, a connector CN11 provided on the trunk line connectingportion 2332 a and a connector CN12 provided on the right end of thebackbone trunk line portion 2321 are configured to be detachablyconnectable with each other. Similarly, a connector CN21 provided on thetrunk line connecting portion 2332 b and a connector CN22 provided onthe left end of the backbone trunk line portion 2322 are configured tobe detachably connectable with each other. In addition, a connector CN31provided on the trunk line connecting portion 2332 c and a connectorCN32 provided on the left end of the backbone trunk line portion 2323are configured to be detachably connectable with each other.

Two systems of power source lines, an earth line, and a communicationline including two signal lines are provided in each of the backbonetrunk line portion 2321, 2322, 2323.

The two systems of power source lines, the earth line, and the twosignal lines of the communication line of the backbone trunk lineportion 2321 are connected to respective five terminals T12 a to T12 earranged in positions so as to be adjacent to each other in theconnector CN12. Similarly, the two systems of power source lines, theearth line, and the two signal lines of the communication line of thebackbone trunk line portion 2322 are connected to respective fiveterminals T22 a to T22 e arranged in positions so as to be adjacent toeach other in the connector CN22. Moreover, the two systems of powersource lines, the earth line, and the two signal lines of thecommunication line of the backbone trunk line portion 2323 are connectedto respective five terminals T32 a to T32 e arranged in positions so asto be adjacent to each other in the connector CN32.

In an inside of the connector CN 11 of the backbone control box 2332,five terminals T11 a to T11 e which are capable of being engaged withrespective terminals T12 a to T12 e in the connector CN12 in male/femalerelation are arranged to align in positions so as to be adjacent to eachother. Similarly, in an inside of the connector CN 21, five terminalsT21 a to T21 e which are capable of being engaged with respectiveterminals T22 a to T22 e in the connector CN22 are arranged to align inpositions so as to be adjacent to each other. Moreover, in an inside ofthe connector CN 31, five terminals T31 a to T31 e which are capable ofbeing engaged with respective terminals T32 a to T32 e in the connectorCN32 are arranged to align in positions so as to be adjacent to eachother.

A printed board configuring a relay circuit 2332 d is provided in theinside of the backbone control box 2332. The terminals T11 a to T11 e ofthe connector C11, the terminals T21 a to T21 e of the connector C21,and the terminals T31 a to T31 e in the connector C31 are respectivelyconnected to the relay circuit 2332 d.

The relay circuit 2332 d includes a circuit for mutually connecting thepower source lines, the earth lines and the communication lines of thebackbone trunk line portions 2321, 2322, 2323 connected to the backbonecontrol box 2332. Functions for intercepting the connection in thecircuit, functions for limiting power supply and so on may be mounted onthe relay circuit 2332 d, if necessary. Further, although not shown inFIG. 127, a branch line connecting portion to which a branch line subharness is connected is provided in the backbone control box 2332.

As shown in FIG. 127, it becomes easy to detach and connect the backbonetrunk line portions 2321, 2322, 2323 with the backbone control box 2332,by providing the connectors CN11, CN12, CN21, CN22, CN31, CN32.Accordingly, when it is to difficult to arrange them on a desired routeon the vehicle body in a condition they are connected to each other, bydetaching the backbone trunk line portions 2321, 2322, 2323 and thebackbone control box 2332 from each other as shown in FIG. 127 as oneexample, operations such as transferring and positioning the respectivemembers become relatively easy.

In addition, the terminals T11 a to T11 e of the connector CN11, theterminals T12 a to T12 e of the connector CN12, the terminals T21 a toT21 e of the connector CN21, the terminals T22 a to T22 e of theconnector CN22, the terminals T31 a to T31 e of the connector CN31, theterminals T32 a to T32 e of the connector CN32 are arranged to align inpositions that they are adjacent to each other. That is, variousconnecting portions (respective terminals) which are detachable andconnectable arranged so as to be concentrated within a relatively narrowspace.

Accordingly, in assembling operations for unifying the backbone trunkline portions 2321, 2322, 2323 and backbone control box 2332, detachingoperations for disassembling them, inspecting operations of therespective connecting portions, replacing operations of parts and so on,the operations can be done only in the relatively narrow space.Therefore, for example during a maintenance, it is unnecessary for anoperator to move around in order to look for various inspectingportions, and the operator can carry out the operations for specificconnecting portions such as the vicinity of the backbone control box2332. In addition, the operations can be carried out only by opening apart of a cover covering a subject portion for the operations, the coverwhich is openable and closable can be small sized.

Another configuration of a principle part of on-vehicle devicesincluding the vehicular circuit body is shown in FIG. 128. As shown inFIG. 128, a vehicle body 2310 of a vehicle is configured by threesegments of an engine room 2311, a cabin 2313, a luggage room 2314. Adash panel 2316 is provided on a boundary part between the engine room2311 and the cabin 2313.

An engine E/G, a main battery 2317, an alternator (ALT) 2318, a starter(ST) 2319, electric components 2320 2320B and so on are mounted in theengine room. The main battery 2317, the alternator 2318 and so oncorrespond to a main power source of the vehicle. As a backup of themain power source, a sub battery 2326 is mounted in the cabin 2313.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 128, backbone control boxes 2331,2332, 2333 and backbone trunk line portions 2321, 2322, 2323 areprovided in an instrument panel portion 2312 in a cabin 2313, and theyare electrically connected to each other. Moreover, a tail end of thebackbone trunk line portion 2323 extends to a luggage room 2314 and isconnected to a backbone control box 2335. In addition, a backbonecontrol box 2334 is provided at an intermediate portion of the backbonetrunk line portion 2323. A backbone control box 2336 and a sub battery2326 are connected to a branch line divided from the backbone controlbox 2334. Various electric components in the luggage room 2314 areconnected to the backbone control box 2335 through a branch line subharness 2345.

According to the configuration of FIG. 128, since it is assumed thatthere is the sub battery 2326, a main power source system and a subpower source system (backup power source system) are included in each ofthe backbone trunk line portions 2321, 2322, 2323. That is, two systemsof the power source lines are provided in the respective backbone trunkline portions 2321, 2322, 2323.

Accordingly, when some trouble is occurred and a power supply is stoppedfrom the main power source, it is possible to supply electric power ofthe sub battery 2326 to electric components having high importancethrough the backbone trunk line portions 2321, 2322, 2323. Therefore, itis possible to minimize operation halts of various on-vehicle componentsin abnormal occurrences, and to realize a high reliability required forexample in a vehicle in which autonomous driving function is mounted.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 128, the backbone control box 2331 inthe cabin 2313, the main battery 2317 as the main power source in theengine room 2311, and the alternator 2318 are connected to each otherthrough a main power source cable 2341. Accordingly, the main powersource cable 2341 is arranged so as to penetrate through the dash panel2316.

Moreover, a part of a branch line sub harness 2342 connected to thebackbone control box 2331 disposed in the cabin 2313 penetrates throughthe dash panel 2316 and is connected to the electric component 2320. Inaddition, a part of a branch line sub harness 2342 connected to thebackbone control box 2333 disposed in the cabin 2313 penetrates throughthe dash panel 2316 and is connected to the electric component (load)2320B.

As shown in FIG. 127, the terminals T11 a to T11 e, T12 a to T12 e, T21a to T21 e, T22 a to T22 e, T31 a to T31 e, T32 a to T32 e are arrangedto align to be adjacent to each other, in the respective connectingportions between the backbone control box 2332 and the backbone trunkline portions 2321, 2322, 2323. Accordingly, when an operator carriesout connecting operations, disassembly operations, inspectingoperations, part replacing operations and so on, the operations can becarried out only in a specific area centralized as operation portions.

Furthermore, since the connectors CN11, CN 12, CN21, CN22, CN31, CN32are used in the connecting portions as shown in FIG. 127, detachmentsand attachments of the respective portions are easy to be carried out.Accordingly, for example in assembling the vehicular circuit body to thevehicle body, the respective backbone control box 2332 and the backbonetrunk line portions 2321, 2322, 2323 can be individually moved andpositioned as independent parts separated from each other. Therefore,workability is better compared to the case in which the backbone controlbox 2332 and the backbone trunk line portions 2321, 2322, 2323 areintegrated in advance.

Moreover, by using the vehicular circuit body having a structure whichis simplified like a spine, manufacturing costs for devices, costs forrouting operations can be reduced. In addition, regardless of anexistence of optional electric components and additional new electriccomponents, a basic configuration of the vehicular circuit body isunrequired to be changed. Thus, communalization of parts and structuresbecome easy.

Although FIG. 128 shows an example of a configuration in which thebackbone trunk line portions are structured to have T-shape in FIG. 128,the vehicular circuit body may be structured to have another shapes. Forexample, the vehicular circuit body may have I-shape structureconfigured only by the backbone control box 2332, 2335 and the backbonetrunk line portion 2323.

Aspects of the vehicular circuit body in accordance with the embodimentsof the invention disclosed in the above are briefly summarized andrespectively listed in [1] to [3] as follows:

[1] A vehicular circuit body provided in a vehicle, comprising:

a trunk line (BB_LM) that extends in at least a front-and-rear directionof the vehicle;

a plurality of control boxes (CB) that are provided in the trunk line;and

a branch line that directly or indirectly connects a control box to anaccessory,

-   -   wherein the trunk line includes a power source line (L1, L2)        having a predetermined current capacity and a communication line        (L4B, L5B) having a predetermined communication capacity,    -   wherein the branch line includes a communication line having a        predetermined communication capacity,    -   wherein the communication line of the trunk line has a        transmission path for an optical signal (optical fiber), and

wherein the communication line of the branch line has a transmissionpath for an electric signal (metal communication line).

[2] The vehicular circuit body according to the above [1],

wherein the branch line further includes a power source line having apredetermined current capacity.

[3] The vehicular circuit body according to the above [1] or [2],

wherein at least one communication line of the trunk line directlyconnects two of the plurality of control boxes to each other.

While the present invention is described in detail by referring to thespecific embodiments, it is to be understood to a person with ordinaryskill in the art that various changes or modifications may be madewithout deviating from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A vehicular circuit body provided in a vehicle,comprising: a trunk line that extends in at least a front-and-reardirection of the vehicle; a plurality of control boxes that are providedin the trunk line; and a branch line that directly or indirectlyconnects a control box to an accessory, wherein the trunk line includesa power source line having a predetermined current capacity and acommunication line having a predetermined communication capacity,wherein the branch line includes a communication line having apredetermined communication capacity, wherein the communication line ofthe trunk line has a transmission path for an optical signal, andwherein the communication line of the branch line has a transmissionpath for an electric signal.
 2. The vehicular circuit body according toclaim 1, wherein the branch line further includes a power source linehaving a predetermined current capacity.
 3. The vehicular circuit bodyaccording to claim 1, wherein at least one communication line of thetrunk line directly connects two of the plurality of control boxes toeach other.